A malignant glioma is a type of tumor that originates from glial cells in the brain or spinal cord. Around 80 percent of malignant brain tumors are gliomas, according to the American Cancer Society. Malignant gliomas frequently invade normal brain tissue, making treatment difficult. Some types of gliomas have a better prognosis than others.
Types
A malignant glioma may be categorized as an ependymoma, astrocytoma or oligodendroglioma. Astrocytomas, which start in cells called astrocytes, are the most common type, and they range from slow-growing to fast-growing. Glioblastomas, the name for fast-growing astrocytomas, are the most common type of malignant brain tumor in adults, according to the American Cancer Society. Oligodendrogliomas begin in cells called oligodendrocytes, and ependymomas arise from ependymal cells.
Identification
Malignant gliomas are usually diagnosed using a CT scan, MRI scan and/or biopsy after symptoms appear. Symptoms may include headache, seizures, weakness, numbness, speech problems, personality changes, vision problems, loss of balance, nausea and vomiting. A wide range of symptoms may occur depending on the location of the tumor, according to the American Cancer Society.
Treatment
Surgical removal, radiation and chemotherapy are common treatments for malignant gliomas, according to the American Cancer Society. A combination of treatments is often necessary. Medications may be given to reduce swelling in the brain and control seizures.
Risk Factors
The risk of developing a malignant glioma increases with age, and men are more likely to be affected than women, according to the National Cancer Institute. Previous radiation to the brain puts a person more at risk of developing a malignant glioma. Rarely, family history of malignant glioma may be a risk factor, according to the American Cancer Society. Some genetic disorders can cause malignant gliomas in children. Other risk factors have not been identified.
Outlook
Successful treatment is more likely with ependymomas because they do not usually infiltrate normal tissue. Some astrocytomas, called non-infiltrating astrocytomas, respond well to treatment, according to the American Cancer Society. Other astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas can be difficult or impossible to cure.
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