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Brain tumors

A glioma is a tumor that arises from the brain cells themselves. Brain cells are called glial cells. Glial cells ensure, among other things, the strength of the brain tissue. There are different types of glial cells. The most important are astrocytes and oligodendrocytes.

A glioma that arises from astrocytes is called an astrocytoma. A glioma that arises from oligodendrocytes is called an oligodendroglioma. A glioblastoma is the most common type of glioma

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AVL Brain Tumor Center

At the NKI Brain Tumor Center, you will receive the best possible care for your diagnosis and treatment. We examine and treat tumors of the nervous system.
Mr. Vlaar patient
Read more about the center

Learn more about gliomas

Causes of gliomas

The causes of gliomas are still unknown. Predisposition plays a role in very rare cases. If you have had cranial radiation in the past, it can increase the risk of a brain tumor.

There is no evidence that diet, smoking, alcohol, cell phone use, or any way of life is related to the development of gliomas.

In the Netherlands, about 1200 people are diagnosed with glioma every year. These are often people who are over 40 years old. But it also occurs in younger people.

Symptoms of gliomas

The symptoms of a glioma are different for everyone. That depends on the place in the brain where the glioma originates. The symptoms can be:

  • headache
  • nausea and vomiting
  • paralysis (arm, leg or half of the body)
  • Balance problems
  • Epileptic seizures
  • Problems talking
  • Problems with vision
  • Behavioral change and/or forgetfulness

Examination and diagnosis

To diagnose glioma, various tests are possible. Your doctor will discuss with you which diagnostic tests are needed:

MRI scan

MRI scan
Biopsie verpleegkundigen

Tissue biopsy

Glioma treatment

Exactly which treatment you receive depends on the type of tumour. Your further health and fitness are also important. You will hear exactly what is going to happen in advance and there is plenty of time to ask your questions. Your treatment will consist of one or more of the following treatments:

Radiotherapy for brain tumors

Chemotherapy

Immunotherapy

Clinical trials

At the Netherlands Cancer Institute, we are always looking for new treatments. We therefore conduct research in studies to see what is possible. Whether you can participate in such a study depends on many things. Do you have any questions about this? Please feel free to contact your doctor or nurse specialist.

Waiting

We want to inform you as well as possible about the waiting time per condition. We do this based on a prognosis of the current waiting list. The waiting time can vary from patient to patient for various reasons. Your attending physician will give you more information during your outpatient consultation.

  • 3 days

    First appointment

    Your first appointment will be planned within approximately 6 days.

  • 14 days

    Surgery

    We aim to remove malignant tumors within 14 days.

  • 6 days

    Second opinion

    It will take approximately 6 days before you can come in for a second opinion

Read more about making an appointment and second opinion

Make an appointment

Second opinion or transfer

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