What is an infiltrating astrocytoma?

Infiltrative astrocytomas represent a group of astrocytic gliomas that are prone to exhibit diffuse invasion of the brain parenchyma. This subset of gliomas are distinct from other glioma types that exhibit a more circumscribed appearance, and they are most often surrounded by reactive gliosis along their margins.

How does astrocytoma affect the brain?

Astrocytoma is a type of cancer that can form in the brain or spinal cord. Astrocytoma begins in cells called astrocytes that support nerve cells. Astrocytoma signs and symptoms depend on the location of your tumor. Astrocytomas that occur in the brain can cause seizures, headaches and nausea.

What is the prognosis for anaplastic astrocytoma?

Survival rate and life expectancy According to the American Cancer Society, the percentages of people with an anaplastic astrocytoma who live for five years after being diagnosed are: 49 percent for those aged 22 to 44. 29 percent for those aged 45 to 54. 10 percent for those aged 55 to 64.

Can you survive astrocytoma?

Astrocytoma survival The average survival time after surgery is 6 – 8 years. More than 40% of people live more than 10 years.

Can an astrocytoma be cured?

Anaplastic astrocytomas are usually not curable, but are treatable. We do our best to control the tumor and keep it from growing and causing more symptoms using many different tools including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Unfortunately these tumors tend to continue to grow and become more aggressive.

Why do people get astrocytoma?

The cause of most astrocytomas is not known. Researchers speculate that genetic and immunologic abnormalities, environmental factors (e.g., exposure to ultraviolet rays, certain chemicals, ionizing radiation), diet, stress, and/or other factors may play contributing roles in causing specific types of cancer.

What kind of brain tumor is a astrocytoma?

An astrocytoma is a glioma that develops from star-shaped glial cells (astrocytes) that support nerve cells. An anaplastic astrocytoma is classified as a grade III tumor. Treatment depends on the location of the tumor and how far it has progressed.

How is a pilocytic astrocytoma brain tumor treated?

Treatment methods for the various types of astrocytomas are briefly explained below. Pilocytic Astrocytoma: These tumors are often removed by surgery alone. In adults and older children, radiation may follow surgery if the tumor cannot be completely removed. Or, the patient may be watched carefully for signs that the tumor has returned.

How is a Grade 3 astrocytoma tumor treated?

Partial resections or inoperable tumors may be treated with radiation. Recurring tumors may require additional surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy. An astrocytoma is a glioma that develops from star-shaped glial cells (astrocytes) that support nerve cells. An anaplastic astrocytoma is classified as a grade III tumor.

How does MGMT silencing work on astrocytoma tumors?

MGMT silencing has to do with the methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) enzyme involved in repairing DNA after it has been damaged by chemotherapics, thus protects the tumor against the action of these drugs. Certain astrocytomas have this enzyme turned off, and, as a result, they respond significantly better to chemotherapy with TMZ.