Posted by CCF MD on August 01, 1997 at 09:12:26:

In Reply to: glioblastoma cause of death posted by Alan F Pye on July 24, 1997 at 11:49:29:

: At 66, my future mother in law has been operated on for glioblastoma

the size of a lemon and radio- and chemotherapy are 2 weeks in.

Only 50% was apparently removed surgically. Ten months to go?

Her personality has changed - euphoria, mostly not able to listen, talking

incessantly, irritable, judgemental - will it deteriorate further?

How does the growth of such a tumor actually cause death?

Will her dying and death be undignified and difficult to nurse at home by

family (husband 71 yrs though fit), ie, should a hospice be considered?

Thanks very much indeed. Alan.

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I'm sure this is very difficult for you and your new family to cope with. It

is not uncommon for a GBM resection to be subtotal and not complete. GBMs are

the most common primary brain tumors in adults. I'm alittle confused as to why

radiation and chemotherpy were not started until 10 months after resection. The

tumor location itself can have a big influence on the persons behavior. Other

medications also taken can cause mood changes - is she currently on steroids?

These can cause alot of mood changes. Tumors can also cause seizures that may

maifest as behavioral changes (rare though but a thought). Each person with a

GBM profresses at their own rate but it is usually relentless despite treatment.

Some patient go through 2 or three resections. These type of tumors project

into the normal tissue and can't be fully resected. Hospice should be considered

and you need to speak with her doctor regarding this. Living Wills and Durable Power

of Attorney should also be discussed. As the yumor grows it may cause herniation (moving

into other compartments) which may then affect breathing and lead to breathing failure.

Again these are things that her doctor can and should talk to the family about.

It is important to stay supportive and discuss treatment options with her doctor.