what is glioma cancer

Glioma is a type of tumor that originates in the glial cells of the brain or spinal cord. Glial cells are supportive cells that surround nerve cells (neurons) and help them function. Gliomas are a form of primary brain tumor because they start in the brain tissue itself. Gliomas vary in terms of growth rate and malignancy. Some gliomas grow slowly and are not considered cancerous, while others are malignant (cancerous) and grow aggressively, invading healthy brain tissue. They form a mass called a tumor, which can press on brain or spinal cord tissue, causing symptoms depending on the tumor's location. There are several types of gliomas based on the specific glial cells affected, including astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, ependymomas, and the highly aggressive glioblastoma. Symptoms from gliomas may include headaches, seizures, changes in personality, memory loss, speech difficulties, weakness, vision changes, and nausea. Gliomas usually do not spread outside the central nervous system but can grow and cause serious damage within the brain or spinal cord. Treatment options depend on the type and grade of glioma and commonly include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The prognosis varies widely depending on tumor type and aggressiveness, with more aggressive gliomas like glioblastoma having a poor survival rate despite treatment.