Astrocytoma
A glioma that starts in star-shaped helper cells called astrocytes.
What an astrocytoma is
Some helper cells in the brain are shaped like stars. They are called astrocytes. An astrocytoma is a glioma that starts in those cells.
Astrocytomas run from slow growing to fast growing, so the grade on your report matters as much as the name.
Kinds you may see
Pilocytic astrocytoma is usually grade 1 and grows slowly. It is more common in children and young adults.
IDH gene change: A small change in a tumor's IDH gene. Tumors with this change often grow more slowly and may respond to different treatments. Your pathology report says whether your tumor has it. See the glossary astrocytoma has an IDH gene change. It can be grade 2, 3 or 4. A grade 4 IDH-mutant astrocytoma is not the same tumor as glioblastoma, even though both are grade 4.
What to ask your team
- What grade is mine?
- Was it tested for an IDH gene change?
- Can surgery reach where it sits?
This is not medical advice. It explains research in plain words. Your care team knows your case. Talk with them before you make any decision about your treatment.