What should you know about glioblastoma brain cancer?

Glioblastoma, sometimes called GBM, begins in cells within the brain and can grow into nearby tissue. Symptoms depend on its location and may include headaches, seizures, weakness, speech difficulty, memory changes, altered behaviour or vision problems. These symptoms can also occur with other conditions. MRI imaging helps show the tumour, while pathology and molecular testing help the team confirm the diagnosis and plan care. The tumour's position, size, symptoms, tissue findings and your overall health all matter when choices are discussed.

A specialist team may recommend [Brain Tumour Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/brain-tumour-surgery/) to remove as much tumour as can be safely reached and to obtain tissue. Further care may include [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) and [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/). Steroids, seizure medicines, physiotherapy, speech therapy and emotional support may help manage symptoms and recovery. Ask for a written plan covering appointments, medicines, activity, driving and who to contact outside clinic hours. Some people may also discuss suitable [Clinical Trials](/treatments/systemic-therapy/clinical-trials/).

Get emergency help for a first seizure, a seizure lasting longer than expected, sudden weakness, loss of consciousness, severe confusion or a sudden severe headache. Contact your treatment team promptly for repeated vomiting, a worsening headache, fever after surgery, wound discharge or a new change in speech, balance, strength or vision.

What do the pathology and molecular results show? What is the aim of each treatment? Which symptoms should trigger an urgent call? How might treatment affect thinking, movement, speech or independence? What rehabilitation, palliative and family support is available?