Overview
Glioma is a type of brain or spinal cord tumor that originates from glial cells, which support and protect nerve cells. These tumors can vary in aggressiveness, affecting both adults and children. As they grow, gliomas can cause symptoms by pressing on brain or spinal cord tissues.
Types of Glioma
- Astrocytomas: Derived from astrocytes, these tumors can be low-grade (slow-growing) or high-grade (malignant).
- Oligodendrogliomas: Develop from oligodendrocytes and are often slow-growing.
- Ependymomas: Arise from ependymal cells lining the ventricles of the brain or the central canal of the spinal cord.
- Mixed Gliomas: Contain more than one type of glial cell and can vary in behavior.
- Brainstem Gliomas: Particularly challenging due to their location in the brainstem, affecting vital functions.
Causes of Glioma
- Genetic Mutations: Changes in specific genes (e.g., TP53, PTEN) can predispose individuals to gliomas.
- Exposure to Radiation: Previous radiation therapy to the head may increase the risk.
- Family History: Inherited genetic syndromes such as neurofibromatosis and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
Risk Factors of Glioma
- Age: Certain types of gliomas are more common in adults (e.g., astrocytomas) or children (e.g., brainstem gliomas).
- Radiation Exposure: Especially during childhood, increases the risk of developing gliomas later in life.
- Genetic Syndromes: Inherited conditions that predispose individuals to various cancers, including gliomas.
Symptoms of Glioma
1. Headaches: Often severe and persistent.
2. Seizures: Can occur suddenly if the tumor affects brain function.
3. Cognitive Impairment: Memory loss, confusion, or difficulty concentrating.
4. Vision or Hearing Problems: Depending on the location of the tumor.
5. Personality or Behavioral Changes: Mood swings, irritability, or personality changes.
Preventions of Glioma
Currently, there are no specific guidelines for preventing gliomas. Avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help reduce risk factors associated with these tumors.
Diagnosis of Glioma
- Neurological Examination: Assessing motor and sensory function.
- Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans to visualize the tumor's size, location, and characteristics.
- Biopsy: Removal of tissue for microscopic examination to determine tumor type and grade.
Treatment for Glioma
- Surgery: Attempt to remove as much of the tumor as possible without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
- Radiation Therapy: Targeted radiation to destroy remaining tumor cells.
- Chemotherapy: Medications to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target certain mutations in tumor cells.
When to seek medical attention ?
Seek medical advice if you experience persistent headaches, unexplained seizures, changes in vision or speech, or any other neurological symptoms that concern you.
