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 tumors and related conditions we treat
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