Low-grade gliomas and astrocytomas

Low-grade gliomas and astrocytomas often grow slowly and can affect speech, vision, movement and memory. Our specialists use precise diagnosis and treatment planning to guide each patient’s next step.

Several types of tumors

Gliomas originate from the supportive tissue of the brain (glial cells). There are several types, including astrocytomas. Astrocytomas are named after astrocytes, the star-shaped glial cells which support and regulate electrical impulses in the brain.

These tumors are classified into four grades that reflect their degree of severity. Low-grade tumors are slow-growing, generally affect young patients and have a good chance of successful treatment.

Types of low-grade gliomas and astrocytomas:

  • Pilocytic astrocytomas — these grade I tumors are found most frequently in children and young adults.
  • Diffuse astrocytomas — the most common low-grade astrocytoma, these grade II tumors generally develop in adults.

Brain tumor clinical trials

We offer patients hope through a robust clinical trial research program to discover the next generation of brain tumor treatments.

Brain tumor research.

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