Malignant glioma

Malignant Glioma

A Malignant Glioma is a type of brain tumor that originates from glial cells, the supportive tissue of the brain. Malignant gliomas are characterized by their rapid growth and aggressive nature, often leading to poor prognosis. They are classified into several types, including glioblastoma multiforme, anaplastic astrocytoma, and anaplastic oligodendroglioma, among others.

Etiology

The exact cause of malignant gliomas is unknown. However, several risk factors have been identified, including exposure to ionizing radiation, certain genetic syndromes such as Neurofibromatosis, and a history of certain types of cancer.

Pathophysiology

Malignant gliomas arise from the transformation of normal glial cells into cancerous cells. This transformation is often associated with genetic mutations, including alterations in the TP53 and EGFR genes. These mutations lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of a tumor.

Clinical Presentation

Symptoms of malignant gliomas can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include headache, seizure, nausea, vomiting, and neurological deficits such as aphasia, hemiparesis, and visual field defects.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of malignant gliomas typically involves neuroimaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans. Biopsy of the tumor is often required to confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact type of glioma.

Treatment

Treatment of malignant gliomas involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The goal of treatment is to remove or reduce the size of the tumor, alleviate symptoms, and improve survival.

Prognosis

The prognosis of malignant gliomas is generally poor, with a median survival time of less than two years for the most aggressive types. However, survival can vary depending on the type of glioma, the patient's age and overall health, and the extent of tumor removal.

See Also

• Brain Tumor
• Glioblastoma Multiforme
• Anaplastic Astrocytoma
• Anaplastic Oligodendroglioma

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