17863 Astrocytoma

Overview

Astrocytoma is a type of brain tumor that begins in star-shaped cells called astrocytes. These cells help support and protect the brain. Astrocytomas can grow slowly or quickly, and their treatment and outlook depend on the tumor's grade and location.

Astrocytoma is uncommon. It is one of the most common types of primary brain tumors, but primary brain tumors overall are rare compared with many other cancers.

Astrocytomas can happen at any age. Some types are more common in children, while others are mostly diagnosed in adults between 40 and 70. Men are slightly more likely to develop astrocytoma than women.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Headaches, especially those that are worse in the morning or with changes in position
• Seizures
• Nausea or vomiting without another cause
• Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
• Trouble with balance or coordination
• Memory problems or confusion
• Changes in personality or mood

Symptoms in children

• New seizures or staring spells
• Trouble walking or clumsiness
• Slow growth or developmental delays
• Morning headaches with vomiting
• Changes in school performance or unusual sleepiness

Symptoms in older adults

• Gradual memory loss or confusion
• Difficulty speaking or finding words
• Personality changes, such as withdrawal or agitation
• Weakness or balance problems that get worse over time

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of most astrocytomas is not known.
• They develop when genetic changes (mutations) in brain cells cause them to grow out of control.
• Most astrocytomas are not inherited from family members.

Risk factors

• Exposure to high doses of radiation, such as radiation therapy for another cancer
• Having certain rare inherited conditions, such as neurofibromatosis type 1
• Weakened immune system, though this is less clearly linked
• Most people who get astrocytoma have no known risk factors.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a new seizure or any sudden change in speech, vision, or movement, seek care the same day.
• If you have a headache unlike any you have had before, with vomiting or weakness, call for urgent advice.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment if you have headaches that are new, persistent, or getting worse.
• See your doctor if you notice memory problems, balance trouble, or personality changes that don't go away.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and doing a physical exam, including tests of your nerves and reflexes. If they suspect a problem in the brain, they will refer you for imaging scans. A biopsy, where a tiny piece of the tumor is taken, may be done to confirm the diagnosis and find out the grade.

Tests that may be done

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain
• Computed tomography (CT) scan of the head
• Neurological exam to check strength, balance, vision, and reflexes
• Biopsy (taking a small tissue sample during surgery or with a needle)

What to expect at your appointment

If you are referred to a specialist, you may have to wait a short time for your appointment. After diagnosis, you will meet your healthcare team, which may include a neurosurgeon, oncologist, and specialist nurses. They will explain your test results, the type of tumor, and the treatment options available. You will have time to ask questions and involve your family if you wish.

Treatment

Treatment for astrocytoma depends on the grade, size, and location of the tumor, as well as your age and overall health. The main goals are to remove or shrink the tumor, slow its growth, and control symptoms. Your team will create a personal treatment plan with you.

Self-care at home

• Keep a list of your medications, symptoms, and questions to bring to each appointment.
• Rest when you are tired and pace your daily activities.
• Use reminders, calendars, or a trusted person to help with memory difficulties.
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your care team promptly.

Medical treatments

Medical treatments may include surgery to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible, radiation therapy that uses high-energy beams to destroy tumor cells, and chemotherapy, which uses medicines to stop cell growth. These approaches are often used in combination. Your doctors will explain which options are right for you and what side effects to expect.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often the first treatment if the tumor can be removed without harming vital brain function. The goal is to take out as much of the tumor as possible while preserving your strengths and abilities.

Living with this condition

Living with a brain tumor can be physically and emotionally challenging. You may need help with work, driving, or household tasks. Focus on building a steady daily routine and leaning on your support network. Your care team can help you manage symptoms and adjust to changes.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a simple daily schedule with regular meals and rest times.
• Ask for help when you need it, whether from family, friends, or community services.
• Talk to your employer about adjustments or flexible work arrangements.
• Do activities that bring you calm and enjoyment, like listening to music or spending time outdoors.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with enough protein and calories can help you feel stronger. Gentle exercise, like walking or stretching, may improve your mood and energy. Always check with your care team before starting an exercise program, especially after surgery.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel anxious, fearful, or sad after a brain tumor diagnosis. These emotions can come in waves. Talking with a counselor or joining a support group can help. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, call your local emergency number or a mental health crisis line right away.

Prevention

There is currently no known way to prevent astrocytoma. Most people who develop it have no identifiable cause or risk factor. Avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure and having regular follow-up for rare genetic conditions may help, but they do not guarantee prevention.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine to prevent brain tumors, including astrocytoma.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for astrocytoma in the general population. The best approach is to be aware of symptoms and seek medical advice when something feels wrong.

Complications

If left untreated

• The tumor may continue to grow and press on surrounding brain tissue, leading to worsening headaches, weakness, or difficulty speaking.
• Untreated high-grade astrocytomas can cause serious neurological damage and become life-threatening.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for astrocytoma depends on its grade and how well it responds to treatment. Low-grade astrocytomas grow slowly and some can be successfully treated or kept under control for many years. High-grade astrocytomas are more aggressive, but treatments are improving, and some people respond well to combination therapy. Your healthcare team will talk honestly about what to expect and focus on giving you the best possible quality of life.

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