Gliomatosis Cerebri

Also known as: infiltrative diffuse astrocytosis, malignant astrocytic tumor.

What is gliomatosis cerebri?

Astrocytes are star-shaped cells that are part of a glial network of supportive and nourishing tissue within the brain. One rare form of malignant (cancerous) tumor that grows and infiltrates aggressively (grade 1V, the most malignant form of brain tumor) from these cells and which spreads over the top and throughout the brain is known as gliomatosis cerebri.

What causes gliomatosis cerebri? 

The cause of gliomatosis cerebri is unknown.

What are the symptoms of gliomatosis cerebri?

Symptoms of gliomatosis cerebri depend on what parts of the brain are affected and include:

  • Signs of raised pressure in the brain (seizures, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, headaches)
  • Personality and behavioral changes
  • Localized symptoms (like weakness on one side of the body)
  • Problems with speech, memory or vision
  • Endocrine abnormalities

What are gliomatosis cerebri care options? 

Gliomatosis cerebri is difficult to remove surgically because it spreads throughout the brain. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, as well one or more drugs in combination, are possible options of treatment. 


Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: April 28, 2022 11:35 AM

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