What is a glioma?

A glioma is a type of brain tumor that is formed by so-called glial cells, i.e. cells in the nerve tissue. They have important auxiliary and supportive functions for nerve function. A distinction is made between different types of glioma tumors, such as astrocytoma or glioblastoma. An astrocytoma develops from astrocytes. These cells form the largest proportion of glial cells in the central nervous system. A glioblastoma is a very aggressive, malignant brain tumor whose cells of origin are also astrocytes.

How does a glioma manifest itself? What are the symptoms?

A glioma can cause different symptoms depending on its location. This depends primarily on the location, rather than the type of tumor. Those affected may suffer from headaches, nausea and vomiting, or show more severe symptoms such as seizures, changes in personality, speech disorders or even paralysis. If a brain tumor is suspected and to detect a glioma, imaging procedures such as an MRI scan are required.

Do we know the cause of a glioma?

The cause is usually unclear. Triggers can be familial or genetic factors, for example, which can be traced back to another disease such as neurofibromatosis. This is a collective term for hereditary diseases that primarily affect the skin and nervous system. However, exposure to radiation can also be a cause.

Who is affected?

Gliomas mainly occur in middle-aged patients between the ages of 40 and 65. They account for around 30 to 40 percent of brain tumors. Around five to six out of every 100,000 people are diagnosed with a glioma every year.

What is the treatment for a glioma?

Nowadays, all types of glioma can be treated. The treatment mainly depends on the size and location of the tumor. Treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. When drawing up a treatment plan, a histological and often an additional molecular pathological examination of the tumor tissue is necessary. In the case of low-grade gliomas, i.e. benign or slightly malignant tumors, surgical removal of the glioma may be sufficient therapy. Postoperative radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be necessary. In the case of malignant gliomas, the tumor is primarily removed surgically and then usually followed by postoperative radiochemotherapy. After this, so-called follow-up checks are necessary, which means that patients have to come for a check-up every three months. Close cooperation between the various departments, such as neurosurgery, radiotherapy, neuroradiology and neuropathology, plays a major role in the treatment. In conclusion, the prognosis for less malignant gliomas is generally good. However, the more malignant the tumor, the more difficult the treatment.