Living with Astrocytoma, anaplastic
A rare brain tumor that starts in star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes, most often in adults.
Understanding Astrocytoma, anaplastic
Astrocytes surround and protect nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Signs depend on the tumor's location and size. It most often appears in adults. It usually happens by chance, but it can go along with a few rare genetic conditions.
Signs & symptoms
GARD says symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumor and may include:
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Vomiting
- Changes in personality or mental state
- Seizures
- Vision problems, limb weakness, or coordination problems
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include brain and nervous system specialists and cancer specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Brain and nervous system specialists (neurologists); Cancer specialists (oncologists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with National Brain Tumor Society and other patient organizations
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD says anaplastic astrocytomas usually occur sporadically, meaning without a clear cause, but can be linked to a few rare genetic disorders.
Also known as: anaplastic astrocytoma; astrocytoma, anaplastic, malignant; grade iii astrocytic neoplasm; grade iii astrocytic tumor; grade iii astrocytic tumour; grade iii astrocytoma
Patient organizations
- National Brain Tumor SocietyAstrocytoma, anaplastic · United States
- Pediatric Brain Tumor FoundationAstrocytoma, anaplastic · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Astrocytoma, anaplastic.
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- Eligibility is confirmed by the study team
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