Low-grade glial tumors are tumors that arise from benign (non-malignant) glial cells that can be found in the brain or spinal cord. Glial cells are cells that support and protect nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. In terms of their technical characteristics, meningiomas and ependymomas are also classified with gliomas as the cell of origin, but when clinically speaking of gliomas, the tumors in question are astrocytomas.
Low-grade glial tumors are generally classified into two main types:
Low-grade gliomas: These types of tumors usually arise from glial cells called astrocytes. The most common low-grade gliomas are grade 1 astrocytoma (pilocytic astrocytoma), grade 2 astrocytoma, diffuse astrocytomas, and oligodendrogliomas. The exact cause of low-grade glial tumors is unknown. However, some factors are thought to increase the risk. These may include genetic predisposition, radiation exposure, some types of neurofibromatosis, and other neurological syndromes. Symptoms of low-grade glial tumors can vary depending on the size, location, and pressure of the tumor.
Some common symptoms may be: Headache and epileptic seizures. Less frequent Seizures Memory problems Auditory or visual changes Weakness in motor skills or problems with coordination
The following methods can be used to diagnose low-grade glial tumors:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Brain and is used to view the spinal cord in detail. It helps to determine the location, size and characteristics of the tumor. The diagnosis of low-grade glial tumor is made by MRI. Absence of contrast in contrast-enhanced imaging is important in staging the tumor.
Computed tomography (CT): It can help show the presence of the tumor and some details.
Biopsy: A sample of the tumor with a surgical procedure to determine the nature of the tumor receivable. If the character of the tumor cannot be understood in MRI, if MR imaging is not sufficient because the tumor is small in size, if it cannot be operated because it is located in a ricke region of the brain, a diagnostic biopsy can be performed. This sample was later returned to the pathology laboratory. also examined for diagnosis. Treatment of low-grade glial tumors varies depending on the size and location of the tumor, and the patient's general health.
Treatment options may include:
Surgery: Surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. operation can be done. If there is a remnant during the surgery, it will be possible for the tumor to re-grow from here or to transition to a more advanced stage. The most important factor determining the quality of life in patients with low-grade glial tumors is the removal of the entire tumor in the first operation.
Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy can be used in cases where the tumor cannot be completely removed or in cases where surgery is not suitable. Tumor cells are targeted using high-energy beams.
Monitoring: Regular monitoring can be done in small, slow-growing tumors, or in some cases if the tumor is not causing symptoms. Treatment options are determined with a multidisciplinary approach, taking into account the patient's condition and the characteristics of the tumor. Specialists such as a neurologist, neurosurgeon, and radiation oncologist work together and consider the patient's preferences.
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