What Are the Treatments for Astrocytoma? Astrocytoma treatment decisions may be made with the help of specialists such as neurologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and therapeutic electric fields are all options for treatment. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment for astrocytoma in India. The…
What Are the Treatments for Astrocytoma?
Astrocytoma treatment decisions may be made with the help of specialists such as neurologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and therapeutic electric fields are all options for treatment. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment for astrocytoma in India. The primary goal of surgery is to remove as many cancer cells as possible without causing harm to the normal brain, particularly the affected brain areas.
Biopsies, laser ablation, and tumor resection are all surgical treatments. Drains may be placed in order to reduce intracranial pressure. For high-risk tumors, radiation and/or chemotherapies are frequently prescribed. In some cases, tumor-treating electric fields may also be beneficial.
The following treatments include:
- Surgery: To remove as many tumor cells as possible from the body.
- Radiation therapy: Applying high-energy waves to kill tumor cells
- Chemotherapy: Using powerful drugs or medications to kill tumor cells. Drugs like carboplatin, cisplatin, and irinotecan are some other drugs used in chemotherapy.
- Target therapy: It targets cancer-specific genes, such as proteins, or the tissue environment that support the growth and survival of the disease. Everolimus (Afinitor) helps in shrinking the tumor and slowing its growth as this is used for subependymal giant cells astrocytoma which can’t be removed completely by surgery.
Despite the best treatments, including chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and target therapy, almost all Grade IV tumors recur. Patients must be under the care of a multidisciplinary neuro-oncology team so that they can receive treatment at each stage.
In large neurological centers, many technologies are available, such as operative microscopes, neuro navigation, intraoperative fluorescence studies, and so on.
The entire cost of astrocytoma treatment in India can vary depending on a number of criteria, such as:
- The price of treatment packages.
- The patient’s situation.
- Duration of hospitalization and stay in the country.
- Need for post-operative care.
- Hospital room classification.
What Are the Complications After Astrocytoma Treatment?
Coordination, muscle strength, speech, and eyesight can all be affected by CNS damage. Following a treatment, the following complications may occur:
- Seizures
- Bleeding, and problems with general anesthesia
- Infection and bleeding from chemotherapy
- Delayed growth and development
- Learning problems
- Reoccurring of tumor cells
- Growth of other cancers
What Is the Difference between Glioblastoma vs Astrocytoma?
Glioblastoma: Glioblastoma multiforme, also known as grade IV astrocytoma, is an aggressive type of tumor that occurs in the brain or spinal cord. It is most common in older adults, but it can occur at any age.
Astrocytoma: This starts with cells called astrocytes (support nerve cells). It can be slow-growing cancer or aggressive cancer that spreads quickly. This is a cancer that occurs in the spinal cord and brain, similar to glioblastoma.
Note: Glioblastoma and astrocytoma are the types of tumors found in glioma.
Cancer is a potentially fatal disease that affects our bodies. It can arise from the CNS or other areas such as the lungs, kidneys, and so on, resulting in a brain or spinal tumor at an early stage or as we mature.
It can be difficult to learn that you or someone you care about has cancer but know that as time passes, new treatments, special tools and technologies, and newer drugs are developed and researched. Also, keep in mind that you are not alone during these difficulties and that your family and medical teams are with you every step of the way. The prognosis of an astrocytoma depends on its type and location. Patients with glioblastoma, for example, may have a one-year survival rate, though some patients may live for five years or more. Patients with pilocytic astrocytoma have a ten-year survival rate. If remission is obtained, it may be either permanent or temporary.
Know More – Glioma vs. Glioblastoma: What’s the Difference
How Can Medsurge India Help?
Medsurge India is a prestigious support system for patients looking for doctors, hospitals, and specialized treatments. We’ll find the most suitable medical options for you. Regarding your medical issues, our team will give you a list of certified, reputable, and trusted doctors and hospitals. Additionally, we offer a treatment strategy that fits your budget. Apart, we assist patients with obtaining travel authorizations, medical visas, and a multitude of other things.