How effective is radiotherapy for glioblastoma?

Glioblastoma cells can extend beyond the visible mass, so surgery is usually followed by treatment aimed at the surrounding brain area. Radiotherapy uses carefully planned beams to treat the surgical region and nearby tissue while limiting exposure to healthy brain. It is often coordinated with chemotherapy or another medicine selected by the neuro-oncology team.

Radiotherapy is a local treatment. It cannot treat every tumour cell elsewhere in the body, and it may not remove all glioblastoma cells. The team balances tumour control with effects such as tiredness, scalp irritation, swelling, memory changes, or worsening neurological symptoms.

Before planning, tell the team about seizures, headaches, steroid use, blood thinners, and changes in movement, speech, memory, or vision. Ask how appointments fit with other treatment and whether you need help with transport or daily tasks. Take prescribed medicines as directed and keep imaging and follow-up visits, which help the team assess response and symptoms.

Seek urgent medical help for a first seizure, a seizure lasting longer than expected, sudden weakness, new trouble speaking, severe drowsiness, repeated vomiting, or a rapidly worsening headache. Contact the oncology team for fever, a painful or oozing scalp area, or new symptoms after treatment. These signs require assessment and do not by themselves show why the tumour or treatment is changing.

What is the aim of radiotherapy after my surgery? Which brain area will be treated? How will it fit with chemotherapy or other medicines? Which symptoms might reflect swelling? What support is available for seizures, fatigue, memory, or changes in independence?