Astrocytoma – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Astrocytoma is a type of brain tumor that starts in cells called astrocytes. These star-shaped cells help protect and support nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Astrocytomas range from slow-growing tumors to aggressive ones. Doctors classify them by grade (I through IV), with higher grades being more serious.
The causes of astrocytoma aren’t fully understood, but several factors may increase risk. Treatment options depend on the tumor’s location, size, and grade.
Doctors may recommend surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drug treatments.
Symptoms
Astrocytomas may cause different symptoms based on their size, location, and growth rate. These brain tumors form from astrocytes, which are star-shaped cells that support nerve cells.
Common symptoms include:
- Headaches that may worsen in the morning or with activity
- Seizures or convulsions
- Nausea and vomiting
- Vision problems such as blurred or double vision
- Balance and coordination difficulties
- Memory problems
- Personality or behavior changes
- Speech difficulties
Symptoms often develop slowly and get worse over time as the tumor grows. In children, additional signs might include growth problems, head size changes, or developmental delays.
Symptom variation by tumor location:
- Tumors in the cerebrum may cause weakness, numbness, or seizures
- Brainstem tumors might affect walking, swallowing, or eye movements
- Cerebellar tumors typically cause balance problems and uncoordinated movements
Many people with low-grade astrocytomas can have symptoms for months or even years before diagnosis. High-grade tumors tend to cause more severe symptoms that progress faster.
When to See a Doctor
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms that might suggest an astrocytoma, don’t wait to get medical help. Contact a doctor right away if you notice:
- Headaches that are getting worse or happen most often in the morning
- Seizures, especially if they’re new
- Vision problems like blurry or double vision
- Unexplained nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Changes in behavior or personality
- Problems with speech
- Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
Symptoms that come on suddenly or get worse quickly need emergency care. Go to the emergency room if you experience a severe headache with confusion, a seizure for the first time, or loss of consciousness.
Early diagnosis can make a big difference in treatment options and outcomes. Your primary care doctor may refer you to a neurologist (brain specialist) or neurosurgeon for further evaluation and care.
During your appointment, the doctor will likely ask about your symptoms and medical history. Be ready to describe when symptoms started and how they affect daily activities. This information helps doctors determine next steps for diagnosis and treatment.
Causes
Scientists don’t fully understand what makes normal brain cells change into cancer cells that form astrocytomas. Research shows that certain genetic changes may play a role in tumor development.
These changes can happen in genes that control cell growth and division.
Several risk factors might increase someone’s chance of developing astrocytomas. Exposure to high doses of radiation to the head increases the risk of brain tumors, including astrocytomas. This exposure typically comes from radiation therapy for other cancers.
Certain genetic conditions can make astrocytomas more likely. These include:
- Neurofibromatosis type 1
- Tuberous sclerosis
- Li-Fraumeni syndrome
- Turcot syndrome
Family history sometimes matters too. A small number of astrocytomas run in families, suggesting inherited genetic factors might contribute to tumor formation.
Age is another important factor. While astrocytomas can develop at any age, certain types are more common in specific age groups.
For example, pilocytic astrocytomas occur more frequently in children, while glioblastomas (grade 4 astrocytomas) are more common in older adults.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase the chance of developing astrocytomas. However, most people with astrocytomas have no clear risk factors.
| Risk Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Genetic conditions | Conditions like neurofibromatosis and Li-Fraumeni syndrome |
| Radiation exposure | Previous radiation treatment to the head |
| Age | More common in certain age groups |
| Family history | Having relatives with brain tumors |
Genetic factors play a significant role. Certain inherited conditions like neurofibromatosis type 1, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis can raise the risk of developing astrocytomas.
Radiation exposure to the head, especially from previous cancer treatments, may increase astrocytoma risk. This risk factor is particularly relevant for people who received radiation therapy as children.
Age affects risk differently depending on the astrocytoma type. Low-grade astrocytomas occur more often in children and young adults, while high-grade versions like glioblastoma typically affect older adults.
Research has not shown strong links between astrocytomas and:
- Cell phone use
- Head injuries
- Exposure to electromagnetic fields
- Diet choices
Most brain tumors, including astrocytomas, happen randomly without any identifiable cause.
