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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
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Subject: Re: brain tumor
: Dear Doctors, My sister-in-law, age 48 yrs, had brain surgery a week ago, and just recieved the results that it is oligodendrogliosmas- between class 1&2. After surgery, the doctors thought that it was a very progressive cancer,so when my brother heard it was not, they were thrilled, and hopeful. They will be going in next week to discuss possible treatments. The tumor was star shaped, and the fingers could not be removed, so further treatment will be necessary. I am looking for any info that might be helpful. What are normal treatments? Can this type of cancer be cured? What percentages are cured, if so? Does the tumor usually reoccur? Can she expect to live a normal life, and live a long life? Is it hereditary? Is it likely that she'll be able to go back to work? I would greatly appreciate any information pertaining to this type of brain cancer. Right now, no one is quite sure what to expect, or just how serious this is. Hope and prayers are abundant, but I'd like to hear a medical view. Thanks for your help. PLillie = Dear Peggy, Oligodendroglioma is a type of tumor that generally carries a better prognosis.There are different types of which some are more aggressive than others. I can`t be sure which kind your sister-in-law has but the low grade type is usually only treated with surgery and then close follow-up. About 50% of people survive at least 5 years and about 40% up to 10 years if their surgeon was able to get most of the tumor out. If the tumor is of the high grade type more treatment may be required after surgery, usually radiation. There is little data available about the outcome with surgery + radiation since this is a relatively rare condition. Some patients develop a recurrence of their tumor and luckily there is chemotherapy to offer them.There are reports of patients doing very well with a drug called thiotepa which is only administered at centers that deal with brain tumors. Another chemotherapy treatment is made up of 3 different drugs abbreviated by PCV which sometimes reduces the size of tumors or may at least prevent further growth. The tumor is not hereditary and people can often lead a normal life whilst their tumor is in remission. Brain cancer is always serious but fortunately there are hospitals that specialize in treating it and where someone like your sister-in-law may benefit from treatments after surgery. Good luck, your love and concern for your sister-in-law will be a great encouragement to her! |
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