Re: brain tumor

Posted By Kim on August 21, 1997 at 17:20:16:

In Reply to: Re: brain tumor posted by CCF NEUROSURGERY MD on August 12, 1997 at 21:49:13:







: : 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!
A matter of life and death: which hospitals specialize in the treatment of
brain tumors, esp. malignant, and esp. in MD area, NY City area, and CA?  
For especially good centers, any location may be do-able.