Brain Cancer (Glioblastoma Multiforme of the Brain)

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What is Brain Cancer?

Glioblastoma multiforme is a cancer of astrocytes. Astrocytes support the nerve cells of the brain.

The brain is the control centre for the body. It is comprised of millions of individual nerve cells which are all interconnected. It is located at the top of the spinal cord and is encased in hard bone. The brain tissue is composed of white matter (nerve tracts) as well as grey matter (neurones and glial cells). The neurones are surrounded by glial cells - cells which are important for support of the neurones, synthesis of myelin, and forming the blood-brain barrier. One type of glial cell is the astrocyte.

Who gets Brain Cancer?

This type of brain cancer is uncommon. May occur in children and adults.

Predisposing Factors

Ionizing radiation and genetics are proven risk factors for brain cancer (glioblastoma multiforme.)

Progression

This brain cacer tumour tends to spread from a central mass outwards. It sends out small projections which grow along nerve tracts and infiltrate brain tissues. It can metastases along the spinal cord late in disease. Metastases outside the CNS is rare.

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