Wednesday, July 15, 2009
July 15th
My Condition - Glioblastoma Multiforme (or GBM)
I was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). This condition has four different grades (I - IV). My tumor is a grade IV GBM. This is the most aggressive GBM tumor. I have included a little section of The Essential Guide to BRAIN TUMORS below to describe the condition more completely.
Astrocytoma
An astrocytoma develops from star-shaped glial cells (astrocytes) that support nerve cells. These tumors can be located anywhere in the brain, but the most common location is in the frontal lobe. Astrocytomas are the most common primary CNS tumor.
The physician, usually the neurosurgeon or neurooncologist, will discuss the type and location of an astrocytoma. The pathologist will assign it a grade. Astrocytomas are generally classified as low or high grade. Low-grade astrocytomas (grades I and II) are slow growing. High-grade astrocytomas (grades III and IV) grow more quickly. The main tumor type is listed for each grade. There are additional tumor types in each of these grades.
The WHO classification divides astrocytomas into four grades:
- Grade I Pilocytic Astrocytoma
- Grade II Low-Grade Astrocytoma
- Grade III Anaplastic Astrocytoma
- Grade IV Glioblastoma Multiforme (or GBM)
Characteristics
The characteristics of an astrocytoma vary depending on the tumor’s grade and location. Most people are functioning normally when diagnosed with a low-grade astrocytoma. Symptoms tend to be subtle and may take one to two years to diagnose. This is because the brain can often adapt to a slow-growing tumor for a period of time. Highgrade tumors may present with changes that are sudden and dramatic.
Symptoms
- Headaches
- Seizures or convulsions
- Difficulty thinking or speaking
- Behavioral or cognitive changes (related to thinking, reasoning, and memory)
- Weakness or paralysis in one part or one side of the body
- Loss of balance
- Vision changes
- Nausea or vomiting
8 comments:
Tammy you know there are so many of us who think of you, Robert, and the boys daily, and moment by moment. You all show us such admirable strength and courage. With all our prayers lifting you and Robert up, I hope you continue to feel and find that deep faith that is sustaining for your family, and to accept the un-understandable.
Just as you find it difficult to find words to describe all the day to day emotions and status of Robert's health, I too can't find the words that will convey the depth of my care and concern for all of you. I just want you to know my family is thinking of you continuously and praying for your family.
Tonight we will be praying for comfort for Robert, and insight and compassion for Robert's caretakers.
You are loved.
Tami,
I think of you often and pray for you, the kids and Robert with my kids. You are a strong a couragous person. Sometimes it does take hardship, trials and tribulations to know just how thankful we are and should be. You are so blessed to have so many friends and family to support you. Know that I too am here if you need anything.
Tammy,
I think about you, Robert, Bryce, and Trey everyday. I am praying for your family and Robert's comfort. Please give Bryce a hug from me and as always if you need anything please let me know.
Tammy Your courage is amazing. I pray for you, Robert and your family every day. May God be with you and help all of you. Love Carolyn
Tammy- I am thinking of you, Robert and the kids often. My thoughts and prayers are with you daily. Love to you all!
-Jill Rosenthal
My heart breaks as I read your words. You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. You are all super heroes in our house!
Love,
Alicia Rob and Kaleb
Tammy,
God bless you and your family. I wish for you all serenity and peace as the road as the road appears to take sharp and scary turns. Try not to panic, continue to breath, and stay in the moments of connectedness and love. I am so sorry you are going through this. Please remember that you are never alone. You are supported and you are good hands.
Linda, Brandon & Chad
p.s. please tell the boys that miss linda is going to put them in her pocket when she sees them! :)
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