Low-Grade Glioma

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

A low-grade glioma

is a brain tumor. The tumor is formed in cells that support the neurons in your brain. Neurons are responsible for movement, thought processing, and senses. Most low-grade gliomas grow slowly and are more common in children and adults younger than 40. Certain genetic disorders or radiation for a head or neck tumor increases your risk for a low-grade glioma.

Signs and symptoms

depend on the size and location of the tumor. The first symptom is usually a seizure. You may also have any of the following:

• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Numbness, weakness, or paralysis
• Trouble concentrating or confusion
• Personality changes
• Vision problems

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

• You have a seizure.
• You have any of the following signs of a stroke:
  • Numbness or drooping on one side of your face
  • Weakness in an arm or leg
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Dizziness, a severe headache, or vision loss
• You have confusion or trouble speaking.

Seek immediate care if:

• You faint or are dizzy.
• You have a severe headache or vision loss.

Call your doctor or oncologist if:

• You are vomiting and cannot keep any food or liquids down.
• You cannot make it to your radiation or chemotherapy appointment.
• You have a headache or dizziness.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment

depends on the location and size of the tumor, and your signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you have regular tests and follow-up visits to watch for changes. You may also need any of the following:

• Medicines can prevent or control seizures. You may also be given steroids to decrease or prevent brain swelling.
• Surgery may be used to remove part or all of the tumor. Ask for more information about surgery for low-grade gliomas.
• Chemotherapy can shrink and kill tumor cells. When the tumor is smaller, you may need surgery to remove the rest. Your healthcare provider may use blood tests to see how much chemotherapy you need.
• Radiation uses x-rays or gamma rays to kill tumor cells and keep them from spreading. Radiation may be given after surgery to kill any tumor cells that were not removed.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Tafinlar
• Mekinist
• Ojemda
• dabrafenib
• trametinib

Manage your symptoms:

• Drink more liquids as directed to prevent dehydration. You will need to drink more if you are vomiting or have diarrhea from cancer treatments. Ask which liquids to drink and how much you need each day.
• Eat healthy foods to help you feel better during treatment and decrease side effects. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and fish. A dietitian may help to plan the best meals for you.

Follow up with your doctor or oncologist as directed:

You will need blood tests to check medicine levels. You will also need tests to check for changes in the tumor. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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