An astrocytoma is a form of glioma tumor which originates in the astrocytes (star-shaped cells in the brain). An astrocytoma may possibly not grow for a long period of time, or grow slowly.

Symptoms

Astrocytoma symptoms are generally associated with the result of growing pressure inside of the patient's skull. Some possible symptoms may include:

Altered development or growth (children)
Double vision
Drowsiness
Eyesight problems
Headache
Lethargy
Mental status changes
Obtuseness
Personality changes
Seizures
Vomiting

View more information on possible symptoms.

Bear in mind that the presence of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate an astrocytoma, since they can be brought on by other underlying causes. Additionally, astrocytomas may be asymptomatic (without symptoms), so the lack of any of these does not mean that an astrocytoma is not possibly there.

Causes

Astrocytoma causes are currently unknown. There are some supposed risk factors, such as genetic factors. For instance, children with neurofibromatosis are thought to have a higher risk of developing an astrocytoma.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of an astrocytoma is made by a doctor or medical professional. Imaging tests which may be used include:

Computed tomography scan (CT or CAT)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Once a tumor is detected, a biopsy is taken, which may occur by itself, or in some cases during the surgery to remove the tumor. Staging of the tumor is done through examination of the sample removed during biopsy.

Treatment

Astrocytoma treatment varies depending upon the particular case, in individual, whether the tumor is benign or malignant (cancer), etc. Surgery is the most common treatment method, although radiation treatment, chemotherapy, and other options do exist.

Grades

Different grading systems are used for classification of astrocytomas. You can read basic information on some of the potential grades.