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Types, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Diagnosis of Glioblastoma

Describe glioblastoma.

A type of brain or spinal cord cancer is glioblastoma. The tumor grows quickly and has the potential to spread to other parts of the brain. The tumor does, however, seldom spread to other bodily parts.

The star-shaped brain cells known as astrocytes develop glioblastoma. These brain cells in the form of stars assist nerve cells. The tumor produces its own blood supply, which allows it to grow and infiltrate healthy brain tissue. Glioblastoma multiforme is another name for glioblastoma. It is a malignancy that is aggressive and incurable. But, you can lessen the symptoms and slow the spread of the cancer using therapy.

What varieties of glioblastoma are there?

Glioblastoma comes in two varieties, such as:

Primary glioblastoma: It accounts for about 90% of cases and may be more common in elderly adults. Primary glioblastoma can spread quickly and with aggression. Hence, your life expectancy could be shortened.

Secondary glioblastoma: The likelihood of having a secondary glioblastoma is increased if you have a low-grade glioma, a tumor in your brain or spinal cord. Young adults are typically affected by this type of cancer. The frontal lobe of your brain is where the tumor usually starts to grow. Yet, compared to primary glioblastoma, you have a higher chance of survival with this type of cancer.

Researchers are looking for the origin of glioblastoma. Yet, some risk factors raise your likelihood of contracting the illness. These are what they are:

exposure to radiation or harmful compounds on a regular basis, including vinyl chloride, insecticides, petroleum, and synthetic rubber

a history of glioblastoma in the family

individuals 45 years of age and older

an uncommon genetic disorder like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Turcot syndrome, or neurofibromatosis type 1

Compared to women, men are more prone.