Also called glioma, astrocytoma is a type of cancerous tumor found in the brain that accounts for about 8.5 percent of all brain cancers, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology. While astrocytomas are one of the most common types of brain cancers in children, the tumors also affect adults.
Identification
Astrocytomas are cancerous tumors that develop in glial cells or astrocytes within your brain. These cells are responsible for nerve cell health and proper functioning throughout your body and most commonly develop in the pineal gland in adults.
Types
Astrocytoma is given a grade or stage from one to four based on the size of the tumor and how quickly it grows.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an astrocytoma in adults includes abnormal posture, decreased sensation confined to one part of your body, double or decreased vision, severe mood swings, headaches, hearing loss, memory loss, seizures, speech problems, vomiting and weakness.
Treatment
When the astrocytoma is in a spot where it can be removed, doctors utilize surgery to treat the cancer. Radiation and chemotherapy are also used in some cases to ensure that all of the cancer was removed or in instances where surgery is not an option.
Prognosis
The five-year survival rate for astrocytoma in adults is approximately 40 to 60 percent, according to Cancer Research UK.
Tags: astrocytoma adults, brain cancers, your body