Hi my husband is 35years old, 8 month ago was diagnost with an 8cm GBM Grade 4th; he has been treat with Radiotherapy and Temodal. The tumor is stabable, hasnt grow, but lately has started to show the initial symptoms convulsions and sleepyness our doctors only recomend to reduce de edema with manitol but it does look just like a provisional solution, what else should I ask our doctors to consider? Thanks Neurologist or Oncologist
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Sorry to hear the progress of disease in your husband. In my experience with patients of GBM IV a survival of 2 years without any serious consequences can be seen in about half of them. It is important to know the size, location and IFF there is any pressure effect due to the tumor. Most tumors cause brain swelling or edema due to slightly increased electrical activity in the surrounding brain. This can be controlled by giving steroids and mannitol. The real problem is any change in appearance of the tumor and its pressure effect on adjacent structures. Cancer is a difficult condition to treat, and every tumor behaves differently. However, we must fight cancer till the end. Praying for a quick recovery for your husband.