Gliomas are tumors that develop from glial cells, which support the brain and spinal cord. Their severity, location, and symptoms can vary widely. The three types of gliomas are astrocytomas, ependymomas, and oligodendrogliomas. Gliomas are more common in older adults and children, and they may be caused by genetics or environmental factors. This blog post discusses glioma causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
The exact cause of glioma is not known, but some factors may increase the risk of developing this condition. These include:
Age: Gliomas are most common in people between 60 and 80 years old, and in children under 12 years old.
Radiation exposure: People who have been exposed to high doses of radiation, such as from nuclear accidents, radiation therapy, or X-rays, may have a higher chance of developing glioma.
Family history: Although rare, some cases of glioma may run in families, especially if there is a mutation in certain genes that regulate cell growth and division.
Other factors: Some studies have suggested that certain infections, allergies, or immune system disorders may also play a role in glioma development, but more research is needed to confirm these associations.
The symptoms of glioma depend on the size, location, and type of the tumor. Some common symptoms include:
Headache, especially in the morning or when changing positions.
Nausea and vomiting.
Seizures, or sudden episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that cause changes in behavior, movement, or sensation.
Memory loss, confusion, or difficulty thinking or understanding information.
Personality changes, mood swings, or irritability.
Vision problems, such as blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision.
Speech difficulties, such as slurred speech, trouble finding words, or difficulty understanding or expressing language.
Balance problems, dizziness, or difficulty walking or coordinating movements.
Weakness, numbness, or tingling in one side of the body or face.
A doctor will conduct a physical exam and a neurological exam to diagnose glioma. In addition to asking the patient about their medical history, family history, and symptoms, the doctor may order one or more of the following tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type, grade, and location of the tumor:
Imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, or single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scans. Different techniques are used to create detailed images of the brain and spinal cord, revealing the extent and presence of tumors.
It involves taking a small sample of tumor tissue and examining it under a microscope. The result is a diagnosis and treatment plan based on the type and grade of the tumor. A biopsy can be performed by drilling a small hole in the skull and inserting a thin needle (stereotactic needle biopsy), or by removing part or all of the tumor during surgery (surgical biopsy).
These tests can help rule out other conditions, check the patient's general health, or check for specific mutations or markers that may affect the prognosis or treatment of the tumor.
As well as age, health, and preferences of the patient, the treatment of glioma depends on the type, grade, location, and size of the tumor. The main goals of treatment are to remove or shrink the tumor, relieve the symptoms, and prevent or delay the recurrence or spread of the tumor.
An effective treatment for the tumor is surgery, which is the removal or as much of it as possible without damaging the surrounding healthy tissues. Surgery can reduce the pressure on the brain or spinal cord, improve symptoms, and increase survival rates. For some tumors that are deep, large, or located in critical parts of the brain or spinal cord, surgery may not be possible or effective.
In radiation therapy, high-energy rays or particles are used to destroy or damage tumor cells. External radiation therapy involves directing radiation from a machine outside the body at the tumor, while internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive source placed inside or near the tumor. In addition to killing any remaining tumor cells after surgery, radiation therapy can be used as a primary treatment for tumors that cannot be removed through surgery. In addition to controlling the symptoms, radiation therapy can also slow down the growth of the tumor.
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill or stop tumor cells from growing. It can either be taken orally, by mouth, or intravenously, through an injection into a vein. In addition to radiation therapy and targeted therapy, chemotherapy has the ability to shrink tumors, delay their progression, or improve survival rates. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, or increased infection risk. However, chemotherapy can also cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, and increased infection risk.
It involves the use of drugs that target specific abnormalities or pathways involved in tumor growth and survival. By sparing normal cells, targeted therapy can be more effective and less toxic than chemotherapy. It can be used alone or in combination with other therapies. Targeted drugs for glioma include bevacizumab, which blocks new blood vessels feeding the tumor, and temozolomide, which interferes with DNA repair.
There are also newer and experimental treatments, such as immunotherapy, gene therapy, and electric field therapy, which boost the immune system, alter the genes, or disrupt the electrical signals of tumor cells. These therapies are still under investigation and may not be available or suitable for all patients.
There is no sure way to prevent glioma, as the exact cause is not known. However, some general measures that may reduce the risk or improve the outcome of glioma include:
Avoiding or limiting exposure to radiation, such as from medical tests, radiation therapy, or nuclear accidents. If exposure is unavoidable, wearing protective gear and following safety guidelines can help minimize the damage.
Eating a healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and low in saturated fats, sugars, and processed foods. A balanced diet can provide the nutrients and antioxidants that can protect the cells from damage and inflammation.
Exercising regularly, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, or as recommended by the doctor. Exercise can improve the blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain and spinal cord, and enhance the immune system and mood.
Quitting smoking, or avoiding secondhand smoke. Smoking can increase the risk of many types of cancer, including glioma, by introducing harmful chemicals and toxins into the body.
Seeking medical attention promptly, if any symptoms or signs of glioma are noticed. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival and quality of life.
