About Glioblastoma

What is a Glioblastoma (GBM)?

GBM is an aggressive and malignant tumor that can affect the brain or spine and that can spread rapidly, causing pressure, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.

GBM Fast Facts

 

  • GBM accounts for about 15% of all primary brain tumors with a mean diagnosis age of 64.

  • GBMs have finger-like tentacles that infiltrate the brain, which makes them very difficult to surgically remove completely.

  • The five-year survival rate for GBM patients is only 6.8 percent, and the average length of survival for GBM patients is estimated to be 12 to 18 months.

  • Despite being identified in scientific literature in the 1920’s, there have only been four drugs and one device approved by the FDA for the treatment of glioblastoma.

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Treatments

Glioblastoma is difficult to treat because some cells may respond well to certain therapies, while others may not be affected at all. Because of this, treatment plans for GBM may combine several approaches. 

  • Surgery to remove the tumor. The goal is to safely remove as much of the tumor as possible to relieve pressure on the brain and prevent rapid spread.

  • Radiation therapy. Use high-energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill cancer cells. Radiation may be combined with chemotherapy or used as a primary treatment for people who cannot undergo surgery.

  • Chemotherapy. Typically, the oral medication (pill form) used to treat GBM is called temozolomide (Temodar). Ask about timing your oral medication 60 minutes prior to radiation as Temodar acts as a radiosensitizer. Recurrent GBM may require IV chemotherapy.

  • Tumor treating fields (TTF) therapy. TTF involves applying adhesive pads to your scalp. The pads are connected to a portable device that generates the electrical field. TTF is combined with chemotherapy and may be recommended after radiation therapy.

  • Targeted drug therapy. Targeted drugs focus on specific abnormalities in cancer cells that allow them to grow and thrive. The drugs attack those abnormalities, causing the cancer cells to die.

  • Clinical trials. Research studies to experiment with the safety and effectiveness of new treatments as well as any benefit or advantage over treatments that are currently available.

  • Supportive (palliative) care. Specialized medical care for people with serious illnesses that focuses on providing relief from symptoms, pain, and stress while improving quality of life.

Disclaimer: this is not medical advice. Consult your doctor on what treatment plan makes sense for you.

Sources: National Brain Tumor Society, Mayo Clinic, American Brain Tumor Association.

Have you been recently diagnosed with a glioblastoma?

I know first hand how difficult navigating the health care system is, especially with a brain tumor diagnosis. I’ve pulled together some resources to help guide you through all of the information and decisions you need to make.