Symptoms & Diagnosis (DX)
Brain Map
While there are many types of symptoms to Glioblastoma and Astrocytoma (a lower grade of Glioblastoma), below is a list. These symptoms can and will depend on the location of the tumor. Below is a list of common signs:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Confusion or decline in brain function, trouble thinking, gradual loss of fine motor skills
- Memory loss
- Personality changes or irritability, mood changes
- Difficulty with balance
- Urinary incontinence
- Vision problems such as blurred vision, double vision or loss of peripheral vision
- Speech difficulties, trouble speaking, making complete sentences
- Seizures, especially in someone without a history
- Weakness on one side of the body
Treatments
- Treatment Options for GBM & Other Gliomas
- State-of-the-art Therapy for Glioblastoma Multiforme
- Glioblastoma Brochure
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Glioblastoma Multiform and brain tumors is done is done by utilizing MRI’s, CAT Scans, blood test, lumbar puncture and a biopsy of the growth. Doctors may use a neurological exam to diagnose low grade gliomas.
- Functional MRI: Maps brain activity by valuating the structures of the brain and detecting changes in blood flow
- Perfusion MRI: Identifies parts of the brain with less blood flow, a potential sign of a tumor blocking the path
- Tractography: Visualizes white matter tracts which carry electric signals and sensory information for the central nervous system. These images are uploaded to a neurosurgical navigation system in the operating room to guide the surgeon around critical pathways as the tumor is removed.
- CT Scan to diagnose astrocytomas – some people cannot have an MRI because the magnet interfere with implanted medical devices such as pacemakers etc. CT scans take multiple x-rays and provide doctors with another way to see structures in the brain.
- Biopsy – A biopsy removes cells (not the tumor) from the tumor. Doctors can confirm the sample is cancerous based on the information and pathology which can also determine how aggressive.
Post Diagnosis
- Post Diagnosis Checklist
Support For Caregivers
Navigating Care
Finding Ancillary / Non-Traditional Resources
FAQs on Standard of Care:
Radiation
Alternative Medicine (Cannabis)
Widow/Widower Resources
The Sassy Widow
Other Resources