Astrocytoma is a type of glioma, which is a brain tumor that arises from the brain tissue, itself. Astrocytomas are gliomas that resemble astrocytes, the supportive cells that encircle and protect the nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain. Some astrocytomas are extremely aggressive. These are called glioblastomas. Glioblastomas are remarkably difficult to treat; the average length of survival after diagnosis with therapy is in the range of one year. However, surgical removal can be beneficial for selected patients with glioblastomas, both to alleviate symptoms associated with the tumor and to extend survival following radical removal.
When possible, the preferred surgical treatment at UPMC for astrocytoma is NeuroendoportSM Surgery, which provides access to the tumor through a dime-size channel. This minimally invasive approach offers the benefits of minimal scarring, fewer side effects and complications, and faster recovery times.
Astrocytoma can be identified by imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.
Your physician will also ask you about your symptoms. These may include:
- seizures
- nausea or vomiting
- weakness or loss of sensation in the arms and/or legs
- speech, vision, or memory problems
- personality changes
Various methods may be used to treat astrocytoma. These treatments may be used together or individually. Whenever possible, the tumor is removed surgically.
NeuroendoportSM Surgery offers a minimally invasive option for deep-seated tumors within the substance of the brain or within the ventricles (fluid spaces). A narrow tube or port allows doctors to access tumors such as gliomas or brain metastases through a tiny incision in the skull, in contrast to conventional brain surgery.
At UPMC, we take a 360° Approach to treatment when evaluating each patient—looking at their conditions from every direction—to find the path that is least disruptive to the patient's brain, critical nerves, and ability to return to normal functioning. Our neurosurgical team may recommend a combination of surgical and non-surgical approaches to maximize the benefits of surgery while minimizing risks.
Radiation therapy
Radiation is commonly used to treat brain tumors, either alone or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy may be delivered externally by directing radiation at the tumor from an outside source, internally by placing radioactive material directly in the body near the cancer, or using stereotactic radiosurgery to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation directly to the brain tumor.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells. Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, chemotherapy may be taken by mouth, as an injection, or placed directly into the brain tumor.
