What I Treat › Brain tumors
Brain tumors
Glioma
A glioma is a tumor that starts from the glial cells, the cells that support and protect nerve cells in the brain. Many different types of tumors fall under the category of glioma, including astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma and glioblastoma.
Gliomas are graded from 1 to 4 based on how quickly they grow and how aggressively they invade the surrounding brain. Glioblastoma, the most common type in adults, is a grade 4 tumor.
Symptoms
- New or worsening headaches, often worse in the morning
- Seizures, sometimes as the first sign
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Trouble speaking or finding words
- Changes in vision
- Changes in memory, mood or personality
- Nausea or vomiting
How a glioma is diagnosed
MRI with contrast
An MRI shows the size and location of the tumor and how it relates to the important areas of the brain nearby. It is the starting point for planning treatment.
Tissue diagnosis
The exact type and grade of a glioma can only be confirmed by examining the tumor tissue, either from surgery or a biopsy. Molecular testing of the tissue helps guide which treatments are likely to work best.
Treatments for Glioma in Denver
Every glioma is different. Dr. Arias reviews your imaging with you, explains every option in plain language, and coordinates your care with neuro-oncology and radiation oncology when additional treatment is needed.
Surgical Resection
Most gliomas need surgery, either to identify the type of tumor or to treat it. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as can be done safely, because removing more of the tumor generally improves the outlook. Dr. Arias uses minimally invasive, hair-preserving approaches whenever possible.
Biopsy
When a tumor sits deep in the brain or in an area that cannot be safely removed, a small sample can be taken through a minimally invasive biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
Radiation and Chemotherapy
Many gliomas, especially higher-grade tumors, also need radiation and chemotherapy after surgery. Dr. Arias works closely with your oncology team so your care is coordinated from diagnosis through recovery.
Ongoing Monitoring
After treatment, regular MRI scans track how the brain is healing and watch for any regrowth, so that changes can be caught and treated early.
More Brain tumors conditions
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Dr. Eric J Arias, MD – Neurosurgeon & Neurointerventional Surgery