Medical Health Encyclopedia

High-grade (IV and V).

Glioblastoma (notably glioblastoma multiforme or GBM).

Very rapidly growing tumors; spread quickly. Represents about 25% of all primary brain tumors. Most common in older adults (over 55) and affect more men than women. Recurrences are common in patients who achieve long-term survival.

Common Brain Tumors: Ependymomas

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF EPENDYMOMAS: Derived from cells that line the ventricles (fluid-filled brain cavities) and spinal cord central canal. Do not usually spread into normal brain tissue. Can block exits for cerebrospinal fluid and cause hydrocephalus. They constitute about 4% of all central nervous system tumors in adults and 10% of these tumors in children. About 30% of ependymomas develop in the spinal column.

Grade and Subtype

Descriptions of Subtypes

Usual Treatment

Low-grade (I).

Myxopapillary ependymoma (found in the spine).

Subependymoma (found in one of the ventricles).

No or very slow growth. In addition to grade, risk is also based on location of the tumor. Tumors on the spinal cord are more accessible than those in the fourth ventricle or in the middle of the lower back portion of the brain.

Can often be removed and cured with surgery, particularly those on spinal cord. Radiation may be needed. Chemotherapy (avoid radiation, if possible) in children under 6.)

Low-grade (II).

Papillary, cellular, and clear cell ependymomas.

Slow growth. Usually affect adults.

Surgery alone or followed by radiotherapy. For those who fail radiotherapy, possible use of nitrosourea-based chemotherapies or investigative drugs.

Grade III.

Anaplastic ependymomas.

Spread to the spinal fluid.

Surgery followed by radiotherapy to brain and spinal cord. Possible shunt.