17032 Glioblastoma

Overview

Glioblastoma is a fast-growing type of brain cancer. It starts in the brain from cells called glial cells, which normally help support and protect nerve cells. Because it grows quickly, it can press on nearby parts of the brain and cause symptoms.

Glioblastoma is rare compared with many other cancers. About 3 in every 100,000 people develop it each year.

It mostly affects adults, especially people over 50. Men are slightly more likely than women to get it, and it can affect people of all races and backgrounds.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Headaches that are new, persistent, or get worse over time
• Seizures (uncontrollable shaking or stiffening of the body)
• Memory problems or trouble thinking clearly
• Changes in personality or mood
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
• Trouble speaking or understanding words
• Vision changes, such as blurring or double vision

Symptoms in children

• This tumor is very rare in children, but symptoms can include headaches, vomiting, balance problems, and behavior changes.
• Children may also have seizures or difficulty walking.

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or memory loss that seems worse than normal aging
• Balance problems or falls
• Increased tiredness or sleepiness
• Slow movements or speech

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of glioblastoma is not known.
• It begins when normal brain cells develop changes in their DNA, causing them to grow out of control.
• There is no evidence that it is caused by using mobile phones, head injuries, or stress.

Risk factors

• Older age, especially over 50
• Previous radiation therapy to the head
• Rare inherited conditions, such as neurofibromatosis type 1 or Turcot syndrome
• A family history of glioblastoma, though this is very uncommon

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a seizure for the first time
• If you have sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, or vision loss
• If your headaches are severe and do not respond to usual methods
• If you have headaches that wake you from sleep or occur with morning vomiting

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a persistent headache that is getting worse
• If you or your family notice changes in memory, personality, or balance
• If you have new neurological symptoms such as tingling or clumsiness in one hand or foot

Diagnosis

A doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and doing a physical examination, including a thorough neurological exam to check reflexes, strength, vision, and coordination. If a tumor is suspected, you will usually have an imaging scan of your brain and may be referred to a specialist.

Tests that may be done

• A neurological examination
• An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of the brain, which creates detailed pictures
• A CT scan, which can also show the brain, but MRI is more detailed
• A biopsy, where a small sample of tumor tissue is removed and looked at under a microscope, to confirm the diagnosis

What to expect at your appointment

If you are referred to a brain specialist, you may have several tests over a few days. Waiting for results can feel stressful. Your healthcare team will explain each step and talk with you about your options, so you are not alone in making decisions.

Treatment

Treatment for glioblastoma usually involves a team of specialists, including a neurosurgeon, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, and nurses. The goal is to remove or shrink the tumor, slow its growth, and manage symptoms. Treatment is individualised for each person.

Self-care at home

• Follow your healthcare team's advice about rest and activity.
• Keep a symptom diary to help your doctors understand how you are feeling.
• Ask for help from family, friends, or support services when you need it.
• Keep appointments and discuss any side effects openly with your team.

Medical treatments

Medical treatment often includes a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy or other targeted therapies. These treatments help slow tumor growth and improve symptoms, but each has side effects that your team will help you manage. Your team will discuss the best plan for your situation.

When is surgery considered?

Whenever it is safe, doctors may recommend surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. This can reduce symptoms and make other treatments more effective. Your surgeon will explain the risks and benefits before any operation.

Living with this condition

Living with glioblastoma means regular visits to your healthcare team, managing symptoms, and making the most of your good days. You may need support with daily tasks, and that is completely okay. Let your team know what you are struggling with so they can help.

Lifestyle tips

• If you are able, gentle walking or stretching can help your mood and energy.
• Get plenty of rest and try to maintain a regular sleep routine.
• Avoid driving if you have seizures or vision problems, and ask your doctor before doing so.
• Consider using relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to reduce stress.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein can help keep your strength up during treatment. Gentle exercise, as recommended by your team, may help with fatigue. Always check with your healthcare team before changing your diet or activity level.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A glioblastoma diagnosis can bring strong feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, and fear. These emotions are normal. Talking with a mental health professional, counsellor, or a support group can help you cope. If you ever feel hopeless or have thoughts of self-harm, contact a crisis helpline in your area right away.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent glioblastoma. Because the cause is not clear, there are no specific steps to avoid it. Instead, the focus is on early diagnosis and the best possible treatment.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine that prevents glioblastoma.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for glioblastoma for the general public. It is found when symptoms lead to an investigation.

Complications

If left untreated

• Pressure in the brain can increase, causing more severe headaches, vomiting, and drowsiness.
• The tumor can damage brain function, leading to weakness, memory loss, or difficulty speaking.
• Seizures may become more frequent or severe.
• Without treatment, glioblastoma can become life-threatening.

Long-term outlook

Glioblastoma is a serious condition, and treatment can slow its growth rather than cure it. But many people live months to years with treatment, and researchers are constantly working on new options. Your healthcare team will focus on giving you the best possible quality of life, managing symptoms, and supporting you and your family through every step.

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