Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is a type of brain tumor that is highly malignant and aggressive. It is considered the most common and deadliest type of primary brain tumor in adults. 

What is Glioblastoma?

Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme, is a type of brain tumor that originates from the glial cells in the brain. Glial cells are the cells that surround and support the neurons in the brain. Glioblastoma tumors are highly malignant, meaning they grow and spread quickly, and are considered grade IV tumors, which is the highest grade of tumor.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of glioblastoma is still unknown. However, certain risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of developing this type of brain tumor. These risk factors include:

• Age: Glioblastoma is more common in older adults, with the average age of diagnosis being 64 years old.

• Genetics: Certain genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing glioblastoma, such as mutations in the TP53 and EGFR genes.

• Exposure to radiation: People who have received radiation therapy to the head or neck area may be at increased risk for developing glioblastoma.

• Immune system disorders: People with certain autoimmune diseases or disorders that affect the immune system may be at increased risk for glioblastoma.

Symptoms

The symptoms of glioblastoma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Some common symptoms include:

• Headaches

• Nausea or vomiting

• Seizures

• Changes in vision or hearing

• Difficulty speaking or understanding language

• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs

• Changes in mood or personality

Prevention

Unfortunately, there is currently no known way to prevent glioblastoma. However, there are some steps that may help reduce the risk of developing this type of brain tumor, such as:

• Avoiding exposure to radiation when possible

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise

• Seeking medical attention promptly if experiencing any unusual symptoms or changes in health

Treatment

The treatment options for glioblastoma depend on several factors, such as the location and size of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, often used in combination.

Surgery: The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible. However, because glioblastoma tumors can be invasive and difficult to remove completely, surgery is often followed by other treatments.

Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. This treatment is often used after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given in pill form or through an IV.

Alternative treatments

Some people may choose to explore alternative treatments for glioblastoma, such as Oriental medicine, acupuncture, or acupressure. While these alternative treatments may have potential benefits, it is important to note that they should not be used as a replacement for conventional medical treatment. Instead, they may be used as a complementary therapy alongside standard medical care.

Oriental medicine:

Oriental medicine, which includes Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic medicine, may use herbs, acupuncture, and other techniques to help manage symptoms and improve overall health.

Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It may be used to help manage pain, nausea, and other symptoms associated with glioblastoma. However, it is important to discuss any alternative treatments with a healthcare provider before trying them, as some treatments may interact with other medications or have potential risks.

Acupressure: Acupressure is a technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve symptoms. It may be used to help manage symptoms such as pain and nausea.

Other alternative treatments that may be explored include massage therapy, meditation, and yoga. However, it is important to remember that these treatments should not be used as a replacement for standard medical care.

Conclusion

In conclusion, glioblastoma is a highly malignant and aggressive type of brain tumor. While the exact cause is still unknown, certain risk factors have been identified. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, often used in combination. Alternative treatments such as Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure may be used as a complementary therapy alongside standard medical care. It is important to discuss any alternative treatments with a healthcare provider before trying them,  as some treatments may interact with other medications or have potential risks. 

References :

• Glioblastoma: State of the Art Treatment and Future Perspectives (2021) by Riccardo Soffietti and Ahmed Idbaih. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the current standard of care and novel therapies for glioblastoma, including surgical, radiation, and chemotherapy treatments, as well as promising emerging therapies.

• Integrative Oncology (2014) by Donald Abrams and Andrew Weil. This book covers various complementary and alternative therapies, including acupuncture, massage, acupressure, and herbs, and how they can be integrated with conventional cancer treatments to improve outcomes.

• Yoga for Cancer: A Guide to Managing Side Effects, Boosting Immunity, and Improving Recovery for Cancer Survivors (2018) by Tari Prinster. This book provides an overview of the benefits of yoga for cancer patients, including how it can help manage side effects, boost immunity, and improve recovery.

• Acupuncture for Pain Management in Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2018) by Chao Deng et al. This study reviews the evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture in managing cancer-related pain, including pain from glioblastoma.

• Herbs for Glioblastoma Multiforme: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives (2020) by Abolfazl Avan et al. This review article discusses the potential of herbal remedies, including traditional Chinese medicines, for the treatment of glioblastoma, including their mechanisms of action and potential limitations.

• Massage Therapy for Symptom Control: Outcome Study at a Major Cancer Center (2004) by Michael J. Carey et al. This study examines the effects of massage therapy on symptoms commonly experienced by cancer patients, including pain, anxiety, and fatigue.

• Acupressure for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2018) by Wing-Fai Yeung et al. This study reviews the evidence for the effectiveness of acupressure in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, which can be a side effect of glioblastoma treatment.

• Traditional Chinese Medicine for Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review of Chinese Literature (2018) by Yong-Sheng Zhao et al. This systematic review examines the evidence for the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicines in treating glioblastoma, including their mechanisms of action and potential limitations.

• Meditation and Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2015) by Linda E. Carlson and Michael Speca. This study reviews the evidence for the effectiveness of meditation and mindfulness-based interventions in improving quality of life for cancer survivors, including those with glioblastoma.

• The Role of Nutrition in Glioblastoma Management (2021) by Anna P. Grabowska and Agnieszka M. Błasiak. This review article discusses the role of nutrition in managing glioblastoma, including the potential benefits of a ketogenic diet and other dietary interventions.