What should you know about GFAP glioblastoma?

GFAP, or glial fibrillary acidic protein, is a structural protein associated with astrocytes and related glial cells in the nervous system. A pathology laboratory can use an antibody stain for GFAP as one part of examining tumour tissue. A positive or increased stain may support that the tumour has glial features, but GFAP alone does not describe the tumour’s grade, genetic profile, extent or expected behaviour. The report is interpreted alongside the microscope appearance, imaging and molecular tests.

Ask the neuro-oncology team to explain the complete pathology report, including molecular findings and the reason for each test. Brain tumour surgery may be used to obtain tissue or remove as much tumour as safely possible. Further care can include radiotherapy and chemotherapy, depending on the diagnosis, surgery, scan findings and your health. Keep copies of your scan and pathology reports, and ask whether a specialist review or an appropriate clinical trial is relevant to your situation. Rehabilitation may help with speech, movement, memory or fatigue.

Seek emergency help for a first seizure, a seizure lasting longer than usual, sudden weakness, new trouble speaking, severe confusion, loss of consciousness or a rapidly worsening headache with vomiting. After surgery, report fever, wound redness or drainage, increasing drowsiness, new weakness or repeated vomiting promptly. Keep a written record of symptoms and medicines for the clinical team.

What does GFAP staining show in my report, and what does it not show? Which molecular tests are available or still pending? What did the scan and surgery indicate? What is the aim of radiotherapy or chemotherapy? Would a second pathology opinion or clinical trial be useful? Which changes require emergency help?