Brain Stem Glioma Treatment

A tumor that develops in the brainstem’s tissues is known as a brain stem glioma. Glial cells develop into gliomas. In the brain, glial cells support and nourish nerve cells, provide them with food and oxygen, and aid in their defense against infection. Patients who come for treatment in India for brain stem glioma can have access to a variety of therapy options. Standard therapies and clinical trials are both used to examine various treatments. Radiation therapy is frequently employed to treat brainstem gliomas.

What Is Brain Stem Glioma?

All gliomas that are found in the brainstem are collectively referred to as brainstem gliomas. These tumors can range in grade from I to IV and are typically astrocytomas. These tumors’ position in the brainstem, which regulates several vital processes including breathing, swallowing, and heart rate, necessitates specific therapeutic considerations. The behavior of astrocytomas that form in various parts of the brainstem varies greatly from one another.

Midbrain and Medulla Gliomas, which are the top and bottom portions of the brainstem, respectively, are often low-grade gliomas (grade I). On the other hand, tumors that develop in the pons (the center of the brainstem) are frequently grade IV tumors and advance significantly more quickly. It is yet unclear why these tumors in this area of the brain are growing so quickly.

Brainstem gliomas can be divided into two kinds based on their aggressiveness and rate of growth:

A diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) spreads across the brainstem and develops extremely fast.
A focal glioma is a kind of brain tumor that develops slowly and tends to remain in one location of the brainstem. Compared to DIPG patients, those with this kind had a better prognosis.

The majority of brainstem gliomas affect youngsters. Brainstem gliomas make up between 10 and 20 percent of all pediatric brain tumors.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Brain Stem Glioma?

The location, size, and age of the tumor are only a few of the many variables that might affect a person’s symptoms. The following signs may appear when a brainstem glioma develops and places pressure on adjacent structures and brain tissue:

Facial numbness
Dysarthria
Dysphagia
Deteriorating handwriting
Diplopia
Ataxia and weakness
Inability to thrive

A brainstem glioma expands, taking up more room inside the hard skull. The inability of the skull to expand causes a rise in intracranial pressure, which can cause:

Headaches
Nausea
Vomiting
Sleepiness

Brainstem glioma-related headaches often start when you get up in the morning and become better during the day. Hydrocephalus can occur in people whose brainstem gliomas grow into the fourth ventricle. The tumor prevents the cerebrospinal fluid’s normal cycle from cycling, which results in hydrocephalus (CSF). Higher internal head pressure may result from hydrocephalus.

How Is Brain Stem Glioma Diagnosed?

In order to diagnose brain stem glioma and make care decisions for the patient, many tests are utilized. Not every test on this list will be administered to every individual. When selecting a diagnostic test for the patient, the doctor may take these things into account:

The probable tumor type
Indications and symptoms
The age and overall health
The findings of previous medical testing

A brain stem glioma can be identified using the following tests in addition to a physical examination:

CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Can assess the tumor’s size. A contrast agent may be used.
MRI: More precise imaging. Contrast medium may be used for better clarity.
Biopsy: In focal tumors, a sample of tissue is taken and analyzed.

How Is Brain Stem Glioma Graded?

The grade refers to how similar healthy cells and malignant cells appear under a microscope.

Focal brain stem glioma: Localized, often low-grade tumors in midbrain or medulla.
Recurrent brain stem glioma: Tumor returns after treatment.
Diffuse brain stem glioma: Most prevalent, high-grade, aggressive tumors spreading through the pons and possibly surrounding areas. May be categorized by H3 K27M genetic alteration.

Procedure

What Are the Types of Treatments Done for Brain Stem Glioma?

Treatment is based on tumor type, grade, potential side effects, patient’s health, and family preferences.

Radiation Therapy: Uses x-rays to destroy cancer cells. Most common treatment.
Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells. May be used before, during, or after radiation therapy.
Targeted Therapy: Targets specific genes or proteins that promote tumor growth.
Surgery: Only possible in localized gliomas. Typically not an option for diffuse types in children.

Note: Diffuse brain stem gliomas are often inoperable. Other treatments will be advised.

The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is It Possible to Remove a Brain Stem Tumor?
A1: Only when the tumor is localized and accessible without damaging vital areas.

Q2: How Long Is It Possible to Survive with Only a Brain Stem?
A2: Most in a vegetative state die within six months of trauma.

Q3: How Quickly Do Gliomas Expand?
A3: Gliomas can grow at 1.4% per day. Glioblastomas may double in size in seven weeks.

Q4: What Glioma Is the Most Dangerous?
A4: Glioblastoma multiforme is the most dangerous and aggressive form.

Q5: What Occurs Following Brain Stem Death?
A5: The person cannot breathe independently or regain consciousness. They are declared clinically dead.