Neuronal and Mixed Neuronal-Glial Tumors
Also known as: brain tumor, brain cancer, ganglioma, Dysembryoplastic Neuroepithelial Tumor (DNET), Central Neurocytoma.
What are neuronal and mixed neuronal-glial tumors?
The brain and spinal cord contain many neurons (specialized cells that send messages from the brain/spinal cord to the brain and rest of the body) and supporting cells (glial cells). Neuronal and mixed neuronal-glial tumors are a rare group of tumors made up of cells of both types, which vary in degree of aggressiveness. Some are low grade (grade 1 or 11) which grow slowly with almost-normal looking cells (benign, noncancerous), while others (grade 111 and 1V) may grow more quickly (malignant, cancerous). Neuronal and mixed neuronal-glial tumors can vary in size, location and severity.
What causes neuronal and mixed neuronal-glial tumors?
The exact cause of malignant glioma is unclear, however exposure to radiation or other environmental toxins, gene mutations or infections may all play a role in their development.
What are the symptoms of neuronal and mixed neuronal-glial tumors?
Symptoms depend on the size and location of the tumor, which can raise the pressure in the brain and/or press on tissues close to it). Depending on the location, symptoms may include headache, seizures, nausea and vomiting, memory loss, confusion, personality changes, balance problems, speech issues, eye problems, and other symptoms.
What are neuronal and mixed neuronal-glial tumors care options?
Surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted drug therapy are all potential treatments. Occupational, physical and speech rehabilitation therapy are typically needed after treatment.
Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP
This page was last updated on: January 10, 2022 04:28 PM