What is glioblastoma?

Glial cells support, protect, and maintain nerve cells. In glioblastoma, abnormal glial-lineage cells grow within brain tissue and may cause swelling or pressure. Symptoms depend on the area involved and can include headache, seizures, weakness, speech changes, memory problems, or personality changes. Doctors use neurological examination and brain imaging, with tissue testing when possible, to confirm the diagnosis.

Care is planned by specialists around the tumour's position, size, tissue findings, and your health. Brain Tumour Surgery may provide tissue and remove tumour that can be reached safely. Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy may then target remaining cells. Medicines can reduce swelling or control seizures. The Glioblastoma page provides condition-level guidance; Clinical Trials may offer an additional discussion.

Get emergency help for a first seizure, a seizure lasting longer than expected, sudden weakness or numbness, new speech difficulty, severe confusion, or loss of consciousness. Contact your care team urgently if headache, vomiting, sleepiness, vision, balance, or behaviour changes quickly.

Ask where the tumour is located, how the diagnosis was confirmed, what symptoms need monitoring, which treatment aims are realistic for you, and how to reach the team between visits. A trusted person can attend and record explanations with your permission.