What is the glioma of the brain stem?

Glioma of the brain stem is a tumor that occurs in the brain stem. It is most common in children and teenagers under 20 years of age, but also occur in adults between the ages of 30 and 40. These tumors are rapidly growing, highly aggressive and difficult to treated. The prognosis varies depending on the location of the tumor.

These tumors can occur in three parts of the brain. Some brain glioma tumors occur at the center of the brain, which is deep in the center of the brain. Others occur on PONS, which is part just below Midbrain. Medulla Oblongata, which is located between PONS and Mícha, is also susceptible to gliomas. These tumors, called Pontine Gliomas, affect the nerves and muscles around the face. This causes problems such as double vision, and can make chewing or swallowing food for the patient. As the tumor grows, the patient may also have walking problems or feel weakness in limbs.

Depending on the location of the brain stem gli, patients could also experience hydrocephaly, a condition in whichM in the brain accumulates cerebrospinal fluid. People who have this condition may suffer from frequent headaches, walking problems or maintaining their balance and stomach. Patients may also complain that they cannot feel one side of the face, or half of their face may seem.

Doctors diagnose tumors of the brain stem by performing magnetic resonance (MRI) tests. These non -invasive tests allow them to look into the presence of tumors. They can also use computer tomography scanning (CT), although these tests are often not as accurate as MRI.

Patients with brain gliomas have limited possibilities in terms of treatment. Tumors are located in a sensitive part of the brain and tend to intercede throughout the area, so doctors often cannot perform surgery. Radiotherapy is also a risk option as high doses can cause permanent brain damage toless.

Despite risks, radiotherapy is the preferred method of treatment, as brain glioma tumors generally respond more positively to radiotherapy than chemotherapy. Some doctors also prescribe drugs to check secondary symptoms. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and other medicines - such as dexamethasone - can control swelling.

patients who have pontin gliomas or pontch tumors usually do not live after diagnosis for more than a year. The chances of survival of medullary or midbrain glioma are significantly higher. Patients have about 65-90 % chance of long-term survival when treated with radiation therapy.