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Diagnosis of Astrocytoma

A glioma is a tumor that starts in either the brain or spine from glial cells. Astrocytoma tumors originate from astrocyte cells, a type of glial cell that has a star shape. The tumors are not limited to one area of the brain, but are common in the cerebrum. According to neurosurgerytoday.org, an astrocytoma is the most common glioma in the brain.

  1. Classification

    • There are several types of astrocytomas and are classified as low grade, anaplastic, and glioblastomas. Low-grade astrocytomas are the least common and slow growing. Many times they will turn into a more rapid-growing type. The anaplastic and glioblastomas are more aggressive and more common. The glioblastomas are the fastest growing and will have areas of dead tumor cells.

    Symptoms

    • Most symptoms of an astrocytoma tumor are due to pressure in the skull. The symptoms include headaches, vomiting and a possible change in mental status. Drowsiness and personality changes are also common with the presence of the tumor. Many times seizures are associated with an astrocytoma tumor.

    Cause

    • The cause of an astrocytoma tumor is not known.

    Diagnosis

    • A physical exam by a neurologist assists in evaluating the symptoms. The physical examination includes testing for hearing, vision, reflexes and balance. The results of the physical exam determine the next step for diagnosis. If required for diagnosis, a CT scan or MRI allows the neurologist to view the soft tissues in the head. These tools assist with locating the tumor. A biopsy is generally required once a tumor is found through imaging. The biopsy removes a portion of the tumor to evaluate the type of cancer present and assist the physician in choosing the best treatment type. In rare cases where these examinations are inconclusive, the fluid of the brain and spinal cord is evaluated.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for a brain tumor varies due to the location of the tumor, severity of symptoms, and the speed at which the tumor is growing. Surgery is a preferred treatment as it is used to remove the tumor. In cases where the tumor radiates from a center point, surgery is used to remove as much as possible. Radiation treatment is required for glioma type tumors. The radiation selectively targets cancer cells while leaving the healthy brain tissue alone. Chemotherapy is a secondary treatment used in some cases.

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