Patients who have surgery for glioma, the most common brain tumor, tend to survive for longer than those who only have a biopsy and diagnosis.

Researchers at the University of Virginia, USA, have been looking at the factors affecting outcomes in glioma. This is a malignancy of the glial cells, the brain cells which support the neurons. The analysis lasted four years and covered 560 patients.

Younger, more active patients tended to do better than those in poorer physical health and in older age groups. The grade of tumor was also an important issue. And those who underwent craniotomy - opening of the skull - and removal of the tumor tended to survive for longer than those that had only a biopsy. However, not all patients will benefit from surgery - some, for instance, will not be able to tolerate a general anaesthetic. The choice of treatment will depend upon the individual.

Source

Journal of Neurosurgery September 2003