What should you know about a glioma brain tumor?

Glioma is a group of tumours that arise from glial cells. Some grow slowly while others behave more aggressively. A tumour’s position can affect movement, speech, vision, balance, memory or mood. Headache and seizures may occur, but these symptoms also have many non-cancer causes. An MRI Scan shows the tumour’s size and position; a tissue sample may help identify the type, grade and molecular features.

Bring scan reports and a current medicine list to a specialist appointment. The team may discuss Brain Tumour Surgery to remove tissue or as much tumour as safely possible. Depending on the tumour, Radiotherapy, Stereotactic Radiosurgery or Chemotherapy may be considered. Ask about rehabilitation for speech, movement or thinking, and about managing seizures, swelling, fatigue and changes in daily activities.

Seek emergency care for a first seizure, a seizure that continues, sudden weakness, new trouble speaking, severe confusion, repeated vomiting or rapidly worsening drowsiness. Contact the clinical team quickly if headaches, balance, vision, behaviour or memory change noticeably, or if treatment causes fever or difficulty taking medicines.

What type and grade of glioma is this? What did the MRI show? Is surgery recommended for diagnosis or treatment? Which functions are near the tumour? What are the aims and side effects of each option? How often will follow-up scans be arranged?