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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Question Title: Inoperable AstrocytomaForum: Neurology Forum
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My sister-in-law has been diagnosed with a Grade II Astrocytoma. The doctors have informed her that it is inoperable because of location, (right side, right in the middle of the sensory motor cortex). After a biopsy at UVA, they ruled out gamma knife as treatment because it was too big. The doctor wants to start radiation treatment to try to shrink the tumor. What is the success rate of the radiation treatment? What is the estimated life expectancy? Are there any new treatments available? = Thanks for the question. As you know these types of tumors are non curable by surgical means and hence if surgery represents too high a risk then it is not done. A great deal of controversy exists as to the best treatment of a grade II astrocytom. We usually do not treat our grade II with chemo or radiation unless the patient has worsening neurologic symptoms (ie seizures, weakness etc) or the scan is revealing an increasing mass. Chemo is not of much benefit in these tumors but radiation therapy has been shown to have an affect. These tumors will usually upgrade to a more aggressive form but the timing is unknown, therefore you may be radiating someone who may clinically be stable for several years before treatment. As you can tell these decisions are not easy and ours are made through our multidisciplinary brain tumor group. To truely recommend what is best for you we woulkd need to review the pathology slides and look at the films. If you wish to have a consultation at CCF call 216 444 5559. Good luck This information is provided for general medical education purposes. PLease consult your doctor regarding diagnostic and treatment options.
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