Astrocytoma
Definition and Presentation
An astrocytoma is a type of glioma originating from astrocytes,
which are the supporting cells of the brain. Tumours are graded
from I to IV depending on their appearance in the microscope and
biological aggressiveness. The low grade, I and II, are considered
relatively benign and grade III and IV very aggressive. The growth
pattern is infiltrative and therefore the tumour borders are
usually undefined. Astrocytoma grade I or pilocytic astrocytoma is
an exception.
Diagnosis
By CT or MRI, but more conclusively by biopsy.
Treatment
Due to their infiltrative growth pattern the malignant
astrocytomas are usually treated by a combination of surgery and
conventional radiotherapy. Chemotherapy is also used. Pilocytic
astrocytomas can often be removed radically and curatively by
surgery. In eloquent locations Gamma Knife surgery is an excellent
choice for this sort of astrocytoma. Rarely astrocytoma grade II
can also benefit from Gamma Knife surgery. Gamma Knife surgery is
sometimes used to boost conventional radiotherapy for malignant
astrocytomas (grade III & IV). (Astrocytoma IV is often called
glioblastoma or glioblastoma multiforme).
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24 months post |