Glioblastoma Multiforme Treatments

Treatment

Surgery is often done to confirm diagnosis and relieve headache, but doctors cannot completely remove the cancer. Other types of treatment may include:

• Radiation treatment is used to further decrease the size of the tumor, usually by about 25% and may be most helpful in improving survival in older patients.
• Chemotherapy also increases survival time and quality of life.
• Steroids to suppress swelling, antiseizure medication to suppress seizures, and pain medications are also used.

Currently, researchers are studying new treatments. These include:

• Immunotherapy
• Anti-angiogenesis (to stop tumors from making new blood cells)
• Molecular therapy
• Gene therapy
• Genetic analysis of the tumor—This is becoming an important tool in determining which therapies are best suited for a given individual. More research needs to be done in these areas.

Unfortunately, overall prognosis is poor. Even with aggressive treatment, few patients survive more than five years after diagnosis. However, there is evidence that medical and surgical intervention can increase life expectancy and improve quality of life.

A multi-disciplinary approach is important for you and your family. This approach may involve:

• Support group
• Psychotherapy and psychiatry
• Pain management
• Hospice care