Astrocytoma

Astrocytoma is the most common neuroepithelial tumor; grades I-IV. Grade I: adult cerebral white matter (protoplasmic/fibrillary); Grade II: low-grade (astrocytoma); Grades III-IV: glioblastoma (middle-aged). Anywhere in CNS; adult cerebrum, pediatric infratentorial (3/4 supratentorial, 1/4 infratentorial). Frontal/temporal most common supratentorial; cerebellar hemisphere/fourth ventricle infratentorial.

Common Symptoms

Oculomotor palsy; clumsiness; mental disturbance; ataxia; focal deficits; localizing signs; ICP; diplopia; slowed responses; sensory disturbance

Causes

Pilocytic astrocytoma: midline white matter/cerebellar hemisphere; optic nerve = optic glioma. Hereditary. Gross: gray-red/gray-white, firm, half cystic (Froin sign positive); cerebellar = cyst with mural nodule ("cyst with tumor" vs "tumor with cyst"). Histologic subtypes: fibrillary (most common, dense glial fibers), protoplasmic (rare, temporal cortex, gelatinous), gemistocytic (5-10%, 25% of astrocytomas, plump cells). Anaplastic: satellite cells, mitoses, giant cells. Pilocytic: hair-like bipolar cells, Rosenthal fibers, microcysts; 4-5% of gliomas; 76-85% in patients <20.

Treatment

Surgery; drug therapy; supportive care

Prevention

Quit smoking; balanced diet; annual checkup; exercise.

Recommended Department

It is recommended to visit the oncological surgery department; before the visit you may first book an appointment and connect with experts through this platform.

Warm reminder: The above information is provided for health education reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek care at a regular hospital in time.