Astrocytomas

Astrocytomas are a type of tumors that is originated from astrocyte cells, which serve as a support for neurons of the brain and spinal cord.

Signs and symptoms most frequently depend on its location and size. Some of these may be headaches, epilepsy, and weakness.

Astrocytomas may be slow-growing lesions or they can have a more aggressive behavior, growing rapidly and spreading to contiguous brain areas. The aggressiveness of the lesion determines its management, adjuvant therapy and prognosis.

Image studies are helpful in order to establish resection potential, prognosis and follow up when treatment is started, besides surgery, in most cases, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are essential for the control of the lesion.