Astrocytoma

Diagnosis

Diagnosing astrocytoma typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and laboratory procedures.

Neurological exam
Your healthcare team will assess your vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength, and reflexes. Difficulties in one or more areas may indicate the specific region of the brain affected by the tumor.

Imaging tests
Imaging is essential to determine the location, size, and characteristics of the astrocytoma. Common imaging tests include:

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). Often the primary tool for diagnosing brain tumors. Specialized MRI techniques, such as functional MRI, perfusion MRI, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy, provide additional information about tumor activity.
CT (Computed Tomography) scans. Can help visualize the tumor and surrounding brain structures.
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans. Useful for assessing metabolic activity and aggressiveness of the tumor.

Tissue biopsy
A biopsy removes a small sample of tumor tissue for detailed laboratory analysis. The sample may be collected during surgery or, if the tumor is hard to reach, through a needle. Laboratory tests evaluate:

Cell type and growth rate
Genetic mutations or DNA changes
Tumor aggressiveness and prognosis

These results help the healthcare team design a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment

Treatment for astrocytoma depends on the tumor’s location, size, and grade, as well as your overall health. Common treatments include:

Surgery
Neurosurgeons aim to remove as much of the tumor as possible.

Complete removal may not always be feasible if the tumor is in a difficult-to-reach area.
Even partial removal can relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Surgery may be the only treatment needed for some, while others may require additional therapy to target remaining tumor cells.

Radiation therapy
Radiation uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to destroy tumor cells.

Often used after surgery if the tumor cannot be fully removed or if there is a high risk of recurrence.
Can be combined with chemotherapy for fast-growing tumors.
Non-surgical patients may receive radiation as the primary treatment.

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves medicines that kill tumor cells.

Medications may be taken orally, injected intravenously, or delivered directly to the brain via implantable wafers.
Frequently used after surgery to eliminate any residual tumor cells.
Sometimes combined with radiation therapy to maximize effectiveness.

Clinical trials
Participation in clinical trials allows access to new and experimental treatments. Risks and side effects may be unknown, so discuss options with your healthcare team.

Supportive care (Palliative care)
Supportive care focuses on relieving symptoms, pain, and emotional stress during treatment.