Glioma Explained: Understanding Brain and Spinal Cord Cancers from Glial Cells


Gliomas are among the most challenging cancers affecting the brain and spinal cord. These tumours begin in the glial cells, which support and protect neurons. Because glial cells are present throughout the central nervous system, gliomas can occur in various regions and behave differently depending on their type. Some grow slowly, while others spread rapidly and affect vital brain functions. Early symptoms are often subtle, making diagnosis difficult until the tumour reaches an advanced stage.

 Understanding how gliomas form, how they affect the nervous system, and what treatment options exist can help patients and families prepare for informed medical decisions. This article provides a detailed explanation in simple, accessible terms.

What Are Gliomas and Where Do They Develop?

Gliomas arise from glial cells that support neurons. These cells help maintain brain structure, supply nutrients, and assist with signal transmission. When glial cells mutate, they begin to divide uncontrollably, forming tumours.

There are several types:

  • Astrocytomas, originating from astrocytes

  • Oligodendrogliomas, from oligodendrocytes

  • Ependymomas, from cells lining the spinal and brain cavities

The type and grade of glioma influence its growth rate and the extent of its invasion of surrounding tissues.

How Gliomas Affect the Brain and Body

As tumours grow, they increase pressure inside the skull or spinal column. Even small tumours can disrupt essential brain functions by compressing nearby nerves.

Depending on the tumour’s location, patients may experience:

  • Speech difficulties

  • Vision problems

  • Muscle weakness

  • Seizures

  • Loss of coordination

These symptoms often worsen over time, prompting neurological evaluation.

Common Signs That Indicate Possible Glioma

Glioma symptoms vary but often progress gradually. Many individuals initially attribute them to stress, fatigue, or ageing.

Symptoms may include:

  • Persistent morning headaches

  • Nausea or vomiting unrelated to stomach illness

  • Memory or personality changes

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Numbness or tingling in limbs

Some patients experience Chronic Daily Headaches, which do not respond well to regular pain relievers and may signal deeper neurological issues requiring imaging.

Understanding Why Gliomas Occur

The exact Glioma Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options depend on multiple genetic and environmental factors. While the cause is often unknown, research suggests several contributors:

  • Genetic mutations that occur spontaneously

  • Family history of brain tumours

  • Long-term exposure to radiation

  • Certain inherited conditions affecting DNA repair

  • Age-related cellular changes

Most gliomas are not linked to lifestyle behaviours, making early detection especially challenging.

How Gliomas Are Diagnosed

Diagnosis begins with a neurological examination followed by imaging tests. MRI is the most accurate tool for detecting tumour size, location, and characteristics. CT scans may be used when an MRI is not available.

Additional diagnostic steps include:

  • Advanced MRI mapping to identify tumour boundaries

  • Biopsy to determine the tumour’s grade

  • Genetic testing of tumour cells to guide targeted therapies

Accurate diagnosis ensures the most suitable treatment plan is selected.

Treatment Options for Glioma

Glioma treatment depends on the tumour type, grade, and location.

1. Surgery

Most patients undergo surgery to remove as much tumour as safely possible. Complete removal is difficult when tumours grow near vital brain structures.

2. Radiation Therapy

Used after surgery or when surgery is not possible, radiation slows tumour growth and helps control symptoms.

3. Chemotherapy

Medicines that target fast-growing cells are used to reduce tumour activity.

Some patients may receive oral chemotherapy such as Myzotem 250mg Capsule, which contains Temozolomide, a widely used medicine for managing various forms of glioma.

4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

These treatments focus on specific genetic changes within the tumour, offering options when standard therapies fail.

5. Supportive Care

Medications for seizures, swelling, and pain improve patient comfort and quality of life throughout treatment.

Living With Glioma: What Patients Should Know

Gliomas often require long-term management. Patients may experience physical and emotional challenges, making supportive care essential to treatment.

Areas of focus include:

  • Managing fatigue and cognitive changes

  • Addressing mobility limitations through physiotherapy

  • Emotional counselling for stress and anxiety

  • Nutrition support to maintain strength

Regular follow-up scans help track tumour progression and adjust treatment accordingly.

Glioma in the Spinal Cord

While less common than brain gliomas, spinal cord gliomas can cause significant disability. They may interfere with motor function, bladder control, and sensation.

Symptoms include:

  • Back pain radiating to the limbs

  • Difficulty walking

  • Weakness or numbness

  • Bowel or bladder dysfunction

Early diagnosis improves outcomes, as spinal tumours can permanently affect mobility if not treated in time.

Prognosis and Future Outlook

Glioma prognosis varies widely. Slow-growing tumours may be managed for many years, while aggressive forms require intensive treatment. Advances in surgical techniques, radiation precision, and molecular testing have improved survival and quality of life.

Ongoing research explores:

  • Personalised therapies based on tumour genetics

  • Immunotherapies targeting tumour-specific markers

  • Enhanced medicine delivery across the blood–brain barrier

These developments offer hope for better outcomes in the future.

Final Thoughts

Gliomas are complex cancers that disrupt essential brain and spinal cord functions. Early recognition of symptoms, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment improve the chances of long-term management. With growing research and evolving therapies, patients now have more options than ever before. Continued awareness, support, and access to specialised care remain central to improving outcomes for those affected by glioma.
Location: India

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