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Glioblastoma

March 2nd, 2021

Glioblastomas (malignant glioma) are the most common adult malignant brain tumors, and 20% of all primary brain neoplasms are glioblastoma multiforme tumors. Mortality associated with GBM is greater than 90% at 5 years, with a median survival of 12.6 months. The prognosis for this tumor is at the extreme worst end because of its high-grade status.

GBM have traditionally been divided into primary and secondary; the former arising de novo (90%) whereas the latter developed from a pre-existing lower grade tumour (10%).

GBM can occur at any age, but tends to occur more often in older adults. It can cause worsening headaches, nausea, vomiting and seizures.

Diagnosis:

-Neurological exam

-Imaging tests (CT,MRI)

-Biopsy

Treatment:

-Surgery to remove

-Radiation therapy

-Chemotherapy

-Tumor treating fields (TTF) therapy.

CT:

-irregular thick margins: iso- to slightly hyperattenuating (high cellularity)

-irregular hypodense centre representing necrosis

-marked mass effect

-surrounding vasogenic oedema

-haemorrhage is occasionally seen

-calcification is uncommon

-intense irregular, heterogeneous enhancement of the margins is almost always present.