Glioblastoma
Original Editors - Simone Potts from Bellarmine University's Pathophysiology of Complex Patient Problems project.
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Definition/Description[edit | edit source]
An astrocytoma is a glioma that develops from star-shaped glial cells (astrocytes) that support nerve cells. A glioblastoma multiforme is classified as a grade IV astrocytoma. It is also referred to as a glioblastoma or GBM[1]
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is by far the most common and most malignant of the glial tumors. Attention was recently drawn to this form of brain cancer when Senator Ted Kennedy was diagnosed with glioblastoma and ultimately died from it.
Gliomas comprise a heterogeneous group of neoplasms that differ in location within the central nervous system, in age and sex distribution, in growth potential, in extent of invasiveness, in morphological features, in tendency for progression, and in response to treatments.
GBM can spread through the brain tissue, but rarely spreads to other areas outside of the central nervous system.
All GBM tumors have abnormal and numerous blood vessels, a common feature of a fast-growing tumor. These blood vessels deliver necessary oxygen and nutrients to GBM tumors, helping them grow and spread. In addition, these blood vessels easily mix with normal brain tissue and travel away from the main tumor, which makes GBM tumors a challenge to treat.[2]
Prevalence[edit | edit source]
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Characteristics/Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
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Associated Co-morbidities[edit | edit source]
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Medications[edit | edit source]
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Diagnostic Tests/Lab Tests/Lab Values[edit | edit source]
T1-weighted axial gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance image demonstrates an enhancing tumor of the right frontal lobe. Image courtesy of George Jallo, MD.[3]
Etiology/Causes[edit | edit source]
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Systemic Involvement[edit | edit source]
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Medical Management (current best evidence)[edit | edit source]
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Physical Therapy Management (current best evidence)[edit | edit source]
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Alternative/Holistic Management (current best evidence)[edit | edit source]
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Differential Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
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Case Reports/ Case Studies[edit | edit source]
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Resources
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Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]
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