Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
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Subject: Re: glioma treatment options You have been so helpful in the past and any imput you have would certainly be appreciated. I have been diagnosed with a low grade glioma and that was verified with a stereotactic biopsy. My real reason for even having the biopsy done (long story) was to get a more detailed answer-what type of low grade gloma? An astrocytoma, etc? This tumor is in the left temporal lobe, 5x5x4cm. This was found when I had a seizure 5 months ago-no other health problems. I am on dilantin, no other seizures. I am basically feeling fine. I have read several reports on the low grade gliomas and there seems to be some controversary over resecting or not. What is your opinoin? Do you have any low grade glioma patients that chose basically no treatment? How did this compare with the radiation or resection option? I have my MRI reports and pathology reports if that helps. Do you do any phone consultation? This is a very helpful forum. Everyone may not put it in their entry, but you all should know, this is so appreciated. Thank you.
Dear GGC: I am sorry to hear about your glioma. Even though the tumor has been graded as a low grade glioma or astrocytoma, there is the chance that it might convert to an aggressive tumor. If it does that, then the life expentancy is short (months). Depending on where the tumor is located, it might be the best option to have it removed. In your case it is in the temporal lobe. If it is your dominant temporal lobe, then the issue of language comes into play. If I were you, I would have language mapped to where the tumor is located. If little loss in language function would be caused by the tumor removal, it might be best to have your tumor removed. This would be the advice if I were talking to my parents or wife or child. If you choose the no treatment plan, then you are hoping that you are one of the lucky ones and the tumor doesn't transform (the majority of cases). Good luck. Sincerely, CCF Neuro[P] MD | |
