Astrocytoma - Types, Causes and Symptoms

 Tumors that develop from Astrocytes are astrocytoma’s. Astrocytes are the star shaped cells in Central Nervous System. They are a type of glial cells. Supportive cells to the brain are provided by glial cells. A part from astrocytes there are a few other types of glial cells. Tumors formed from glial cells are called gliomas. Astrocytoma can be treated by Neurosurgeon, Skedoc will help you for finding the Best Neurosurgeon in Hyderabad near you

Astrocytoma’s mostly develop in brain, but they may also be seen in spinal cord. Based on the pace of growth and abnormality in the cells, Astrocytoma’s are graded as I to IV of which, grade I being milder version and grade IV being the highly aggressive with abnormal looking and faster growing cells. Grade I Astrocytoma’s can be non-cancerous in nature while grade II, III and IV are cancerous in nature. Headache, nausea or seizures are cause due to Brain Astrocytoma’s. Weakness or disability are caused due to the Spinal Astrocytoma’s.

Any concerns regarding the condition you may search for Neurosurgeon near you on SKEDOC app or you may also book an online appointment with Neurosurgeon on SKEDOC app and get help.

TYPES OF ASTROCYTOMA

Based on the grading following are the types of Astrocytoma’s:

  • Pilocytic Astrocytoma: It is a Grade I (spreading tendency) type of tumour. It is one of the most common types of astrocytoma’s occurring in the cerebellum. It is a slow growing, well circumscribed tumor without any tendency to spread to the surrounding brain tissue and thus can be resected completely. As it is a benign tumor pilocytic carcinoma do not need chemotherapy or radiotherapy after surgical removal.

  • Pleomorphic Xantoastrocytoma: Grade I Pleomorphic Xantoastrocytoma develop in the temporal lobes of the brain is a Grade I slow growing tumor. Seizures are associated with this type of tumors. This tumor does not proliferate and is usually cured by surgery.

  • Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma (SEGA):  It is a Grade I tumor frequently seen in younger people and is usually associated with tuberous sclerosis. Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma develops in the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces in the brain) of brain, which are fluid-filled spaces deep into the brain. It may cause Hydrocephalus as the tumor blocks the normal outflow of the cerebrospinal fluid as it grows in the ventricles. Surgery can cure this type of Astrocytoma.

  • Diffuse Astrocytoma: As Diffuse Astrocytoma is a Grade II spreads to the surrounding brain tissue and grows without clear differentiation and so surgery itself is not sufficient to cure it. Microscopic examination shows increased number and abnormal appearing cells.

  • Anaplastic Astrocytoma: Anaplastic Astrocytoma is Grade III astrocytoma with higher aggressiveness and malignancy than grade II astrocytoma. Microscopic examination shows increased cellular proliferation and more abnormalities in cells compared to Diffuse Astrocytoma. So, surgery alone cannot cure anaplastic astrocytoma. It and may require both radiotherapy and chemotherapy after surgery.

  • Glioblastoma (GBM): It is grade IV astrocytoma is most destructive and invasive form of astrocytoma with highest malignancy and aggressiveness.it has a rapid pace of growth and spread. Microscopic examination shows cell proliferation, disfigured cells and areas with dead tissues and new vessels. Glioblastoma may be presented as a malignant form from previously existing lower grade astrocytoma (10% of cases) in younger patients. In 90% of cases, it may be presented directly as a grade IV astrocytoma, mostly after the age of 60. 

CAUSES OF ASTROCYTOMA

The exact cause of astrocytoma cannot be pinpointed. It usually randomly occurred. Radiation exposure and genetics are reported risk factors of Astrocytoma’s. Mutation in the gene IDH1 may cause a gradual build-up of a chemical 2-HG in the healthy astrocytes over a period of time. The Astrocyte cells develop abnormality due to this build up leading to Astrocytoma.

SYMPTOMS OF ASTROCYTOMA

One has a particular symptom depending upon the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms observed in Astrocytoma. The below Symptoms can be treated by Neurosurgeon, To Book Doctor Appointment Online with top Neurosurgeon, Please visit Skedoc website, The Below are some Symptoms of astrocytoma:

  • Persistent headaches.

  • Nausea and Vomiting

  • Seizures

  • Unexplained Exhaustion 

  • Reformed mental status (delirium or dementia)

  • Memory issues (Amnesia)

  • Vision issues (double or blurred vision)

  • Intellect issues (personality or mood changes)

  • Speech issues(aphasia)

  • Movement issues (weakness or abnormal reflexes)


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