Holistic treatment of brain gliomas
Glioma is a relatively common tumor that arises from cells of the central nervous system and grows in the brain and spinal cord.
There are gliomas that are benign (Type I and II) and some that have more aggressive characteristics (Type III and IV). Usually, gliomas that present at ages over 60 years are the ones with the greatest aggression.
The symptoms of patients vary depending on the anatomical location of the tumor. The most common are persistent headache, a tendency to vomit, balance and speech disorders, as well as seizures.
Which specialty should I consult after a glioma diagnosis?
The proper treatment of gliomas requires the collaboration of specialties. Some gliomas initially require the intervention of a neurosurgeon with the aim of the best possible excision, without affecting the patient’s quality of life. If this is not possible, the tumor should initially be treated with radiotherapy and then oncologically with chemotherapy or immunotherapy. In general, the decision on the course of treatment should be made by a specialized oncology council in the presence of all the specialties involved.
Is there any development in the surgical treatment of aggressive gliomas (Glioblastoma) in recent years?
In recent years, there have been significant developments that have radically changed the survival expectancy of patients suffering from aggressive glioma of the brain or spinal cord. To achieve the best possible tumor resection, the neurosurgeon is guided by modern navigation systems (dematography) and the use of the drug 5-ALA. The tumor cells absorb the drug and fluoresce bright red under the microscope. In this way, the best possible resection of the lesion is achieved, without neurologically affecting the patient’s quality of life.
What is the treatment for low-grade glioma?
Modern studies have shown that the appropriate treatment for low-grade glioma is surgical resection. Monitoring is not indicated for the treatment of gliomas.
Radical resection of the lesion has clearly better results regarding the survival and quality of life of patients. The widespread spread of gliomas within the nervous tissue, even in areas of the brain that control important functions, makes radical surgical intervention difficult.
These types of gliomas are now treated using awake craniotomy. During surgery, the patient is awake and participates in tests that control important functions, such as speech and limb movement.
This method is particularly effective and allows for the best possible removal of the tumor.
