According to the American Brain Tumor Association, a glioma is a tumor that starts growing in supportive brain tissue and is often referred to as a primary brain tumor. The supportive tissue is like glue and is called glia, helping stick your brain’s neurons in place and perform well.
Neurons receive, process and transmit information throughout your nervous system by using chemical and electrical signals. If you have a glioma, this could impact your neurons’ ability to do their jobs.
Types of Gliomas
There are many types of gliomas. Symptoms may accompany some cases, while others may be discovered during an imaging exam.
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive type of glioma, and it is especially hard to treat because it has thread-like tendrils that extend into nearby areas of the brain, making surgery to entirely remove the tumor difficult. Patients may benefit from chemotherapy, radiation therapy, clinical trials and/or targeted therapies. Symptoms may include:
- Trouble seeing, hearing or speaking
- Coordination problems
- Fatigue
- Tingling, numbness or decreased sensation
- Paralysis or muscle weakness
- Behavior or personality changes
- Language or memory issues
- Severe headaches
- Seizures
Brain stem glioma is more common in children who are 3-10 years old but can also occur in adults. Surgery may be difficult because it could damage the brain stem, but radiation therapy can be an effective treatment option. Symptoms may include:
- Double vision
- Weakness or numbness in your arms, legs or face
- Trouble swallowing, balancing or speaking
- Nausea
- Headaches
Ependymoma refers to tumors that start in the ependyma, which are cells that line the areas of the brain that produce and store cerebrospinal fluid. Ependymoma usually is only in one part of the brain, and treatment in most cases is surgery followed by radiation. Symptoms may include:
- Trouble seeing or walking
- Stiff neck or neck pain
- Coordination problems
- Feeling tired
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Severe headaches
An optic nerve glioma is a tumor on the nerve paths between the brain and the eyes. Treatment in most cases is surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Symptoms may include:
- Double vision
- Gradual loss of vision
- Headaches
A mixed glioma contains at least two different types of glioma cells. Treatment can vary depending on how aggressive the tumor is. Symptoms may include:
- Changes in memory or behavior
- Trouble seeing
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Paralysis or weakness
- Seizures
- Headaches
UofL Health is Here for You
Neuro-oncologists with UofL Health – Brain & Spine Institute, who perform services at UofL Health – Brown Cancer Center, have a wealth of experience evaluating and treating patients with primary and secondary tumors of the brain and spinal cord, and using the latest techniques and modalities to provide the best care for patients. The team is dedicated to the delivery of excellent patient care through an integrated multidisciplinary approach. To schedule an appointment with our neuro-oncology team, call 502-588-2160.
