Pronounced: GLEE-oh-blass-TOE-mah
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common glioma (a type of brain cancer). It represents nearly one fourth of all primary brain tumors. This cancer starts in the glial cells, which are cells that help nerve cells work.
This condition can develop spontaneously. Less commonly, it can develop from a lower grade, less malignant (cancerous) brain tumor. Most cases are located in the cerebral hemisphere, but the cancer can begin in the spinal cord or brain stem.
If you suspect you have this serious condition, contact your doctor immediately. Early treatment leads to a more favorable outcome.
GBM originates from astrocytes, which are a type of glial cell. The factors that cause normal-functioning astrocytes to become cancerous is not well understood.
These factors increase your chance of developing GBM. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
There is inconsistent evidence that electromagnetic radiation and cell phone use are associated with this condition.
Symptoms include:
After taking a complete history of your symptoms and completing a physical exam, your doctor may also use the following tests:
Surgery is often done to confirm diagnosis and relieve headache, but doctors cannot completely remove the cancer. Other types of treatment may include:
Currently, researchers are studying new treatments. These include:
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:
RESOURCES:
American Brain Tumor Association
http://www.abta.org/
National Brain Tumor Foundation
http://www.braintumor.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada
http://www.braintumour.ca/braintumour.nsf/eng/home/
Canadian Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.ca/
References:
Adult brain tumors: treatment for glioblastoma. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/adultbrain/HealthProfessional/page9 . Accessed September 29, 2005.
Anti-angiogenesis treatment. American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ETO/eto_1_3_Antiangiogenesis_Therapy.asp . Accessed May 22, 2008.
Brain tumor-adults. Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia website. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007222.htm . Accessed September 29, 2005.
Brain tumors. The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Second Home Edition Online website. Available at: http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec06/ch088/ch088b.html . Accessed September 29, 2005.
Dictionary of cancer terms. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary/ . Accessed May 22, 2008.
Glioblastoma multiforme. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Accessed February 1, 2009.
McDermott Michael W, Kunwar Sandeep, Berger Mitchel S. Neurosurgery and surgery of the pituitary. In: Doherty GM, Way LW. Current Surgical Diagnosis and Treatment. 12th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2003: chap 37.
National Cancer Institute brain tumor study in adults: fact sheet. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/braintumorstudy . Accessed May 22, 2008.
Ropper AH, Brown RH. Adams and Victor's Principles of Neurology. 8th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Medical Publishing Division; 2005: chap 31.
Samuels MA, Feske SK. Office Practice of Neurology . Philadelphia, PA: Churchhill Livingstone; 2003.
Last reviewed January 2009 by J. Thomas Megerian, MD, PhD, FAAP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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