diffuse astrocytoma

Common Signs and Symptoms of Diffuse Astrocytoma

Diffuse astrocytoma, a type of brain tumor, can cause various symptoms depending on its size, location, and growth rate. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with this condition:

• Headaches: One of the most frequent complaints among patients with diffuse astrocytoma is headaches, which may worsen over time [2].
• Seizures: Seizures can occur due to the tumor's impact on brain function [2].
• Personality changes: As the tumor grows and presses against brain structures, it can cause personality changes, such as mood swings or difficulty concentrating [3].
• Weakness or numbness in an arm or leg: The tumor's location can affect motor functions, leading to weakness or numbness in an arm or leg [4].
• Changes related to thinking, learning, concentrating, problem-solving, and decision-making: Cognitive difficulties are common symptoms of diffuse astrocytoma, affecting a person's ability to think, learn, concentrate, solve problems, and make decisions [4].
• Vision changes: Depending on the tumor's location, patients may experience vision changes, such as blurry or double vision [7].
• Difficulty speaking: The tumor can affect language centers in the brain, leading to difficulty speaking or understanding speech [7].
• Memory problems: Memory issues are another common symptom of diffuse astrocytoma, affecting a person's ability to recall information and learn new things [6].

It is essential to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the size and position of the tumor, as well as how quickly it grows. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

References:

[2] - Symptoms may include headaches; Seizures; Additional symptoms depend on the size and location of the tumor, which may impact specific ...

[3] - Noticeable effects of grade I and grade II astrocytomas may be quite subtle because the brain is able to temporarily adapt to the presence

[4] - Common signs of an astrocytoma are seizures, headaches, and personality changes. Other symptoms may also be noted including weakness or numbness in an arm or leg or changes related to thinking, learning, concentrating, problem-solving, and decision-making.

[6] - Some common end-of-life symptoms associated with astrocytoma: Neurological Decline: Astrocytomas can cause ...

[7] - Symptoms. As the astrocytoma grows and presses against the brain, it can cause symptoms. They depend partly on where and how big your tumor is.

[11] - Diffuse astrocytomas can grow into nearby tissue ...

Diagnostic Tests for Diffuse Astrocytoma

Diffuse astrocytoma, a type of brain tumor, can be diagnosed using various tests and procedures. Here are some of the diagnostic tests used to diagnose this condition:

• Neurological Exam: A neurological exam is typically the first step in diagnosing diffuse astrocytoma. This involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional to assess symptoms such as vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength, and reflexes.
• Imaging Studies: Imaging studies are crucial in diagnosing diffuse astrocytoma. These include:
  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan can help identify the tumor's location and size.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI is considered the most important imaging study for astrocytomas. It provides detailed images of the brain and can help determine the tumor's grade, location, and extent.
• Genetic Testing: Genetic testing may be performed to identify specific genetic mutations associated with diffuse astrocytoma.

According to [2], astrocytomas represent a significant subset of brain tumors originating from astrocytes. Amongst brain tumors, glial tumors comprise 60% of the tumors. As the most common form of glioma, astrocytomas primarily affect the brain, although they can also involve the spinal cord.

Specific Diagnostic Tests

Some specific diagnostic tests used to diagnose diffuse astrocytoma include:

• FISH for Chromosome 7 Gain: This test is considered the single most sensitive test to diagnose astrocytoma.
• IDH1 Mutation Analysis and FISH for Gain Chromosome 7: This combination of tests has a high sensitivity (95%) and specificity (100%).
• Pituitary Hormone Test: A blood test that includes a pituitary hormone test may be ordered as part of the diagnostic process.

References:

[2] Astrocytomas represent a significant subset of brain tumors originating from astrocytes, the star-shaped glial cells that play a critical role in supporting neuronal function within the cerebrum.

Treatment Options for Diffuse Astrocytoma

Diffuse astrocytomas are a type of brain tumor that can be challenging to treat. While surgery is often the primary treatment option, drug therapy plays a crucial role in managing this condition.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ) is a common treatment approach for diffuse astrocytoma. TMZ works by killing cancer cells and slowing down tumor growth [6]. In some cases, chemotherapy may be used in combination with surgery or radiotherapy.
• Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy is another treatment option for diffuse astrocytoma. It involves using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink the tumor [3].
• Anti-convulsants and steroids: To reduce the risk of seizures and swelling around the tumor, anti-convulsant medications (such as phenytoin or levetiracetam) and steroids (like dexamethasone) may be prescribed [4][7].

FDA-approved Medications

The FDA has approved several medications for the treatment of diffuse astrocytoma. These include:

• Temozolomide: As mentioned earlier, TMZ is a chemotherapy medication used to treat diffuse astrocytoma.
• Vorasidenib (Voranigo): In August 2024, the FDA approved vorasidenib for the treatment of low-grade gliomas, including diffuse astrocytomas [8].

Treatment Decisions

Treatment decisions for diffuse astrocytoma are typically made on a case-by-case basis and involve a team of healthcare professionals. The goal is to provide the best possible care while minimizing side effects.

References:

[3] May 20, 2024 — Treatment options in astrocytomas include operative intervention, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. [4] Drugs called anti-convulsants, also called anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), to reduce the risk of having seizures. Steroids to reduce swelling around the tumour. [6] You usually have radiotherapy after surgery. You might take a chemotherapy drug called temozolomide if you are well and able to care for yourself. [7] Steroids: Dexamethasone is the drug of choice to relieve symptoms due to the brain swelling that is often associated to the tumor. · Chemotherapy with TMZ: [8] Aug 6, 2024 — UPDATED (August 6, 2024): The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved vorasidenib (brand name: Voranigo) for the treatment of low-grade gliomas.