Symptoms of Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of glioma and accounts for almost 25 percent of all primary brain tumors. It usually develops spontaneously but it can also arise from a less malignant brain tumor.

General Symptoms

• A glioblastoma commonly produces symptoms that aren't specific to any particular condition. These include headaches, nausea, vomiting and seizures.

Specific Symptoms

• Glioblastomas also produce symptoms that strongly indicate a brain tumor. These include progressive memory loss or personality changes. Glioblastomas can also cause neurological deficits when the frontal and temporal lobes become involved.

Onset

• The size at which a glioblastoma becomes symptomatic is highly dependent on its specific location in the brain. Malignant glioblastomas tend to grow faster and have an earlier symptom onset.

Size

• Large tumors will eventually cause an increase in the intracranial pressure. This will cause symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, drowsiness and coma.

Young Children

• Children still have developing skulls that haven't completely fused. Glioblastomas can cause bulges in the skull as a result of the increased intracranial pressure.