Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma, glioblastoma multiforme, astrocytoma grade IV, and grade IV astrocytoma are all names for the same tumor. Glioblastoma belongs to a family of brain tumors called "astrocytomas." These are tumors which arise from astrocytes-- star-shaped cells of the brain which play a role in supporting normal brain tissue. 

The articles below explain what glioblastoma is, how it is treated, options in treating this type of tumor, and support resources for both the patient and the family.  For our detailed ABTA brochure discussing Glioblastoma, please click here.

Below, click on the blue text for more detailed information; scroll down the page to see the entire list of articles on this page.

High grade gliomas: What patients and families need to know
Glioblastoma multiforme, anaplastic astrocytoma, and another type of tumor alled oligodendroglioma are referred to as "high grade gliomas." The article explains what newly diagnosed families need to know about their treatment options. It also offers questions to ask your physician about your treatment plan.

Benign vs. Malignant
This article offers a basic explanation of what makes some brain tumors "benign" and some "malignant," how the word "cancer" is used in the brain tumor community,  the difference between tumor "grade" and "stage," and helps you understand the meaning of tumor-related terminology.  

About Astrocytomas 
When this file opens, scroll down to "Astrocytoma" section for an introduction to astrocytomas, a diagram of an astrocyte, and information about grade I, II, III (also called anaplastic astrocytoma) and grade IV astrocytoma (also called glioblastoma or gliobastoma multiforme). 

Glioblastoma and Anaplastic Astrocytoma
This easy-to read article explains glioblastoma and its "cousin" tumor, anaplastic astrcytoma. Treatments, treatment options and support resources are also discussed.

Glioblastoma - Moving Research into Treatment
This review article discusses glioblastoma (also called astrocytoma grade IV), what we know about its origin, current research and treatment options.

Advances in Treating Brain Tumors
An introduction to recent changes in the way brain tumors are diagnosed and treated, this article focuses on malignant brain tumors.

Treating Brain Tumors
Visit this section of our ABTA website for detailed information about surgery, radiation therapies, chemotherapy, steroids, clinical trials, new treatments, and alternative and complementary therapies.

Stay Updated
This service subscribes you to our free ABTA monthly email updates which may feature new treatments in development, clinical trial results, research study results, news from the brain tumor community, and more.  Follow the link to register.

Care & Support
This supportive area of the ABTA website offers tips, techniques, and resources for people living and coping with the diagnosis of a brain tumor.



Last updated:  December 28, 2011