Astrocytoma Health Article

Anaplastic

—Undifferentiated, appearing to have an immature cell type.

Biopsy

—A sample of tissue taken from the tumor.

Glioma

—A tumor of the brain's glial cells.

Primary tumor

—An original tumor, not a metastatic tumor resulting from cancer's spread.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR

• Where inside my brain is the cancer located and where will it spread?
• What types of treatment are recommended?
• What are the possible side effects of this treatment?
• How can the side effects be minimized?
• Am I eligible for any clinical trials?
• Are there any alternatives to this treatment?
• What are the chances that the cancer will return?
• Will this cause any disabilities?
• How will this affect my daily life?