Gliomas are tumors that arise from the brain’s supportive cells, called glial cells. They make up a major group of primary brain tumors and include astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and glioblastomas.
Gliomas can range from slow-growing (low-grade) to aggressive (high-grade) forms. Early and precise diagnosis is critical for determining the best treatment plan and improving survival outcomes.
Symptoms
The symptoms of gliomas depend on their size, histopathology and location in the brain. Common signs include:
- Persistent or worsening headaches
- Seizures (often the first symptom)
- Weakness or numbness in one side of the body
- Speech, memory, or vision problems
- Personality or behavior changes
Because symptoms may develop gradually, many patients seek care only after significant progression — making timely evaluation important.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with MRI with contrast, which helps visualize the tumor’s size and borders.
Advanced imaging such as functional MRI (fMRI) and tractography (DTI) can map critical areas for speech, movement, and vision — guiding safe surgery.
When surgery or biopsy is performed, molecular testing of tumor tissue (including IDH mutation, 1p/19q codeletion, and MGMT methylation status) provides essential information for prognosis and therapy planning.
Treatment Options
1. Maximal Safe Resection
Surgery aims to remove as much of the tumor as possible while protecting vital brain functions. This is achieved using neuronavigation, intraoperative monitoring, and sometimes awake craniotomy for language mapping.
2. Radiotherapy & Chemotherapy
Postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy (most commonly Temozolomide) are used depending on the glioma grade and molecular profile.
3. Targeted & Experimental Therapies
In selected cases, targeted molecular drugs or tumor-treating fields (TTF) may be added to standard therapy to slow progression.
4. Recurrent Glioma Management
For recurrence, options include re-operation, radiosurgery, or clinical trials focusing on novel agents and immunotherapies.
Recovery & Follow-Up
After treatment, patients undergo regular MRI follow-ups every 3–6 months.
Rehabilitation (speech, physiotherapy, neurocognitive therapy) helps restore function and quality of life.
Many patients continue normal daily activities with appropriate support and monitoring.
When to See a Neurosurgeon
If you experience new or unexplained headaches, seizures, weakness, or mental changes, early consultation is key. Gliomas can often be managed more effectively when identified early.