Brain Tumors

Gliomas

Grades of Glioma

Pathologists also classify gliomas into grades. Grade 1 is the slowest growing; grade 4 the fastest growing. A grade 4 tumour is also called a glioblastoma or glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Grade 1

Pilocytic astrocytoma often occur in children and can be cured with surgery. The most common example is the juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma which often occurs in the cerebellum.

Grade 2 (low grade astroctytoma)

This type of tumour usually occurs in adults. It quite often presents with seizures. It is called an astrocytoma or a diffuse astrocytoma.

Grade 3

Anaplastic astrocytoma is also called a malignant cytoma. It is fast growing and more invasive than the low grade astrocytoma.

Grade 4

Glioblastoma multiforme is an aggressive tumour which is unfortunately the most common type of brain tumour in adults.

Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic Neuroma refers to a tumor affecting the eighth cranial nerve, one of the twelve cranial nerve pairs. Approximately 90% of acoustic neuromas originate from the balance segment of this nerve.

Such tumors are known as schwannomas, often manifesting through progressive hearing loss and eventual deafness. Historically, surgery has been the predominant treatment, typically offering a cure.

In recent times, stereotactic radiosurgery has emerged as a treatment for smaller tumors, those under 3cm. However, as tumors are more likely to reduce in size rather than disappear, scans every one to two years are essential. Despite this, radiosurgery is proving to be an effective treatment alternative.

In the uncommon instances when the tumors are extensive, an approach from the back of the skull is utilized to gain access.

Schedule an appointment with expert Neurosurgeon and Spine Surgeon, Dr BSV Raju for optimal care and treatment options.

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