- This is the most common type of glioma, and develops from the star-shaped cell known as an astrocyte.
- These can form anywhere in the brain and at times in the spinal cord.
- They are most commonly found in the frontal or temporal lobes in the cerebrum.
- These primary brain tumors can be benign or malignant.
- Grading is very important in defining a brain tumor. Astrocytomas are graded 1-4.
- A grade 1 tumor means that the cells within the tumor resemble normal brain cells very closely and are usually slow growing and unlikely to spread.
- A grade 4 tumor means that the tumor cells are very abnormal when compared to normal brain cells. Grade 4 astrocytomas are also known as glioblastomas and are very malignant.
- There are 3 types of astrocytomas:
- Low-Grade Astrocytomas: present in both children and adults
- Anapalastic Astrocytoma: this is a mid-grade tumor that can spread to surrounding areas
- Glioblastoma Multiforme: This is a high-grade very aggressive tumor that can spread rapidly to neighboring brain tissue.
- Symptoms in children can include movement disorders.
- Treatment generally includes surgical removal, possibly followed by radiation therapy.
Medical content was reviewed by Dr. Alex Golby of Brigham and Women's Hospital, February 2004.
