What is an Oligoastrocytoma?
What is an Oligoastrocytoma?
Anaplastic oligoastrocytoma is a brain tumor that forms when two types of cells in the brain, called oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, rapidly increase in number to form a mass. These brain cells are known as glial cells, which normally protect and support nerve cells in the brain.
What is the difference between glioblastoma and oligodendroglioma?
Their names refer to the kind of cells in which they begin: Astrocytoma affects the glial cells called astrocytes. The most aggressive astrocytoma is a glioblastoma, which is also called a glioblastoma multiforme. Oligodendroglioma affects the glial cells called oligodendrocytes.
What is a mixed glioma?
Mixed gliomas (also called oligo-astrocytomas) are made up of more than one type of glial cell. Their diagnosis as a distinct tumor type is controversial and may be resolved with genetic screening of tumor tissue. These tumors are often found in the cerebrum and are most common in adult men.
What is an oligodendroglioma?
Oligodendroglioma is a primary central nervous system (CNS) tumor. This means it begins in the brain or spinal cord. To get an accurate diagnosis, a piece of tumor tissue will be removed during surgery, if possible. A neuropathologist should then review the tumor tissue.
What causes Oligoastrocytoma?
Can you survive oligodendroglioma?
About 30 to 38% of people with this type of tumour will survive for 5 years or more after they are diagnosed. Read more about oligodendroglioma brain tumour types and treatments.
How long can you live with oligodendroglioma?
As a general rule, people with grade II oligodendrogliomas are likely to live for around 12 years following diagnosis. People with grade III oligodendrogliomas are expected to live an average of 3.5 years. Do talk to your doctors. They will be able to give you a more individualized prognosis for your condition.
Can oligodendroglioma be removed?
Surgery to remove the tumor. Your brain surgeon (neurosurgeon) will work to remove as much of the oligodendroglioma as possible without affecting healthy brain tissue. Specialized surgical techniques, such as awake brain surgery, can help ensure that sensitive brain tissue isn’t damaged during surgery.
