What Is A Glioma?

So far, science does not know the reasons why a glioma forms. It is a tumor that starts in the brain or spinal cord, with an undetermined course that depends on the area where it has grown and the type of tumor in question. Learn more in this article!

A glioma is a tumor that can occur in the brain or spinal cord. These tumors can affect the functions of the brain and are considered to be life threatening. Their severity depends on exactly where they are located and how quickly they start to grow.

There are several types of gliomas, and depending on their specific characteristics, each of them has different treatment and prognosis. It has been noted that they are one of the most common primary tumors that occur in the brain.

Currently, different types of treatment are available for gliomas. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or all of these procedures are used. Other treatments are also being tested.

What is a glioma?

The central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) contains neurons, which are highly specialized and differentiated cells. This means that each of them only knows how to perform its own function, which is to receive information, then process and transmit it.

In order for them to function properly, other cells surround them. These cells support them, provide them with energy and collect the waste generated during the processes carried out by neurons. The cells that perform these tasks are collectively known as the glia.

The cells that make up the glia are also of different types : astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, ependymal cells, etc. Tumors form when there is an abnormal increase in these types of cells and are known as gliomas.

Types of glioma

Sometimes these tumors are benign, grow very slowly, and infiltrate little into normal tissue. Other times, very aggressive tumors are generated, which grow very easily and spread quickly.

In principle, and depending on their severity, gliomas are classified into four levels. I and II are benign; IV and V are smart. Mild gliomas usually do not result in severe symptoms, as the brain itself usually generates processes to adapt to it. Malignant gliomas can be devastating.

The type of cell involved also creates different types of glioma. There are basically three types of glial cells that can produce tumors. The most common are astrocytomas, ependymomas, and oligodendrogliomas. The most aggressive form of these tumors is called glioblastoma multiforme.

Glioma usually forms in areas where there is a greater amount of brain tissue. Therefore, they most often appear in the frontal lobe, cerebral cortex, and thalamus. However, this rule does not apply to children.

Origin and characteristics

Science is not sure exactly what causes a glioma to form. What has been established, however, are the three most important risk factors. Those are :

• Age : Although glioma can appear at any age, it is more common in people aged 45 to 65.
• Radiation exposure : People who have been exposed to ionizing radiation have a higher risk of developing glioma. This type of radiation is used in radiation therapy to treat cancer and in radiation generated by atomic bombs.
• Family history : A family history of glioma slightly increases your risk of developing any of these tumors.

Most often, benign tumors first manifest as an epileptic seizure. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, are generally manifested by intracranial hypertension and the production of neurological deficits of various kinds.

Other data of interest

A malignant glioma can generate multiple manifestations, depending on its location. It is common for it to cause headaches, vomiting, and progressive loss of consciousness. In many cases, intellectual abilities decrease and muscle strength is lost, which includes loss of sphincter control.

In some cases, there is also a loss of sensation in certain areas of the body, as well as changes in vision and language. Memory abnormalities and gait difficulties are also common.

Benign gliomas usually have an excellent prognosis. Basically, they are treated surgically and can be completely removed and cured. Malignant gliomas, on the other hand, have a shorter life expectancy and uncertain chances of improvement.