Astrocytoma
What is Astrocytoma?
An IDH Mutant Astrocytoma is a type of primary glioma (tumours that arise from supporting cells in the brain)
Astrocytomas are broadly classified into low-grade and high-grade astrocytomas depending on the nature of their growth.
Types of IDH mutant Astrocytoma
- Grade 2 astrocytoma: Slow growing, infiltrating tumour lacking well-defined borders and seen in adults between the ages of 20 and 40
- Grade 3 astrocytoma: Relatively quick growing astrocytoma occurring in adults in the 30-50 age groups.
- Grade 4 astrocytoma: Fast growing and seen in adults over age 50.
Symptoms of Astrocytoma
Symptoms vary depending on the location of the brain tumour and may include persistent headaches, double or blurred vision, vomiting, loss of appetite, difficulty in walking, seizures, gradual changes in mood or personality, and memory loss.
Causes of Astrocytoma
The underlying cause of the condition is not known. Past exposure to radiotherapy increases the likelihood of developing astrocytomas. Some patients have inherited familial syndromes that predispose them to developing these tumours.
Diagnosis of Astrocytoma
Your doctor may conduct a thorough physical examination and review your medical history. The doctor may also require you to get a CT scan or MRI of the brain. If the scan reports indicate the presence of a tumour, you would be referred to a neurosurgeon. Ultimately, tissue will be required for diagnosis.
Treatment for Astrocytoma
Treatment for Astrocytomas depends on the tumour’s size, location, grade, symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. The main treatment options include:
- Surgery: The first step is usually surgical removal of as much of the tumour as possible while preserving normal brain function. Surgery can help relieve symptoms and confirm the diagnosis.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is used to destroy remaining tumour cells, especially if the tumour cannot be completely removed or is high-grade.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs such as temozolomide may be used to slow tumour growth, particularly in aggressive or recurrent tumours.
- Observation (“Watchful Waiting”): Some low-grade astrocytomas that grow slowly may be monitored with regular MRI scans before active treatment is started.
- Supportive Care: Medications may be given to control symptoms such as seizures, swelling, headaches, or neurological problems.
- Targeted Therapies: There is now an IDH inhibitor (Vorasidenib) that is available for treatment of grade 2 tumours.
