What Is Glioma (Glial Tumor)? Treatment Methods

Gliomas (glial tumors) are tumors that originate from glial cells, which are the supporting cells of the brain and spinal cord. Glial cells surround neurons in the nervous system, provide nutrients to them, and regulate electrical transmission. For this reason, glial cells are known as the “support network” of the nervous system.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that gliomas are among the most common types of brain tumors and may present different levels of malignancy. Some of these tumors grow slowly, while others can progress quite aggressively.

Gliomas belong to the group of primary brain tumors in medicine. This means they do not spread to the brain from another organ; they originate directly within the brain tissue itself.

Glial Cells and Tumor Development

Glial cells support nerve cells and help them function properly. There are three main types:

Astrocytes: Provide support to nerve cells and maintain the blood-brain barrier.
Oligodendrocytes: Produce the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibers.
Ependymal cells: Help circulate the cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and spinal cord.

Abnormal proliferation of any of these cells can lead to the development of glial tumors (gliomas).

Tumor Formation Process

Glial cells normally divide in a controlled manner. However, due to genetic alterations, uncontrolled cell growth may occur and tumor tissue can develop.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that gliomas are associated with genetic mutations, particularly changes in genes such as IDH1, IDH2, and TP53, which play an important role in determining tumor behavior.

Types of Glioma (Glial Tumors)

Since gliomas develop from different types of glial cells, they are classified accordingly.

Astrocytoma

These gliomas develop from astrocyte cells. They may be low-grade (Grade I–II) or high-grade (Grade III–IV). The most aggressive form is glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Oligodendroglioma

These tumors originate from oligodendrocyte cells. They usually grow more slowly but may become malignant over time.

Ependymoma

These tumors develop in areas where cerebrospinal fluid is produced. They are more commonly seen in children.

Mixed Glioma

These tumors contain both astrocytic and oligodendroglial characteristics and have a mixed cellular structure.

Symptoms of Glioma (Glial Tumor)

The symptoms of glioma vary depending on the location, size, and grade of the tumor.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı explains that early symptoms usually develop slowly, but neurological findings become more noticeable as the tumor grows.

Most Common Symptoms

• Persistent or gradually worsening headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures (epileptic attacks)
• Balance problems and difficulty walking
• Vision or speech disorders
• Difficulty concentrating and personality changes
• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs

In some patients, symptoms progress slowly and may take time to be recognized. Therefore, regular neurological check-ups are very important.

Benign and Malignant Types of Glioma

Gliomas are classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) into Grade I – IV.

Benign (Low-Grade) Gliomas

These include Grade I and II tumors.

• They generally grow slowly.
• If completely removed surgically, the risk of recurrence is low.
• They are more common in children (especially pilocytic astrocytoma).

Malignant (High-Grade) Gliomas

These include Grade III and IV tumors.

They grow rapidly and spread into surrounding tissues.
They usually require radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
The most aggressive type is glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that early diagnosis of malignant gliomas significantly increases treatment success.

Glioma Stages

Gliomas are evaluated in four stages based on microscopic examination.

Stage I: Cell structure is nearly normal. Full recovery may be possible after surgery.
Stage II: Cellular abnormalities exist but rapid division is limited. Follow-up is necessary.
Stage III: Malignant transformation has begun. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are required.
Stage IV: The highest level of malignancy, commonly known as glioblastoma.

Each stage determines the tumor’s growth rate and response to treatment.

How Is Glioma Diagnosed?

Neurological Examination

The patient’s reflexes, balance, vision, speech, and muscle strength are evaluated.

Imaging Methods

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Shows the tumor’s location, size, and boundaries in detail.
CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Detects calcification or bleeding within the tumor.

Biopsy

A tissue sample is taken from the tumor for definitive diagnosis.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that brain biopsies should be performed by experienced surgeons. Biopsy remains the gold standard for determining the tumor type and grade.

Treatment of Glioma (Glial Tumor)

Glioma treatment is planned individually. The aim is to remove as much tumor tissue as possible, preserve brain functions, and extend the patient’s lifespan.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is the main treatment for gliomas.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that advances in microsurgical techniques have made brain surgery much safer.

Microsurgery

A delicate surgical technique performed with high-resolution microscopes. It allows tumor removal while minimizing damage to brain tissue.

Neuronavigation

A computer-assisted system that identifies the tumor location in three dimensions and increases surgical precision.

Awake Brain Surgery

If the tumor is close to speech or movement centers, the patient may remain awake during surgery so that brain functions can be preserved.

Radiosurgery (Gamma Knife, CyberKnife)

Used for small tumors that are not suitable for conventional surgery. High-dose radiation is precisely directed at tumor cells.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is used after surgery to destroy remaining tumor cells. Modern techniques such as IMRT and SRS target the tumor while protecting surrounding tissues.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs stop tumor cell division.

Temozolomide (Temodal) is the most commonly used chemotherapy drug.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that chemotherapy is often personalized based on genetic characteristics and should be managed by a multidisciplinary medical team.

Targeted Therapies

In some glioma types, special medications have been developed to target genetic mutations such as IDH inhibitors, which may slow tumor growth.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Recommendations

Nutrition plays an important role during glioma treatment.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that a balanced diet rich in antioxidants may help strengthen cellular resistance.

Recommended Nutritional Principles

• Reduce sugar intake since tumor cells rapidly use glucose.
• Consume plenty of vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants.
• Include omega-3 fatty acids such as fish, walnuts, and flaxseed.
• Limit red meat consumption.
• Drink sufficient water to support the immune system.

Supplements and Herbal Support

Although not scientifically proven, some herbal products such as turmeric and green tea are believed to have antioxidant effects. However, such supplements should only be used with medical approval.

Important Considerations for Glioma Patients

Regular MRI follow-ups should not be skipped.
New symptoms such as headaches, balance problems, or vision loss should be evaluated by specialists such as Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı.
Side effects of radiotherapy such as fatigue and nausea can often be managed with proper nutrition and supportive care.
Healthy sleep patterns and stress management strengthen the immune system.
Physical therapy, speech therapy, or neuropsychological support may be required.

Importance of Early Diagnosis in Glioma

Early diagnosis is one of the most important factors that extend survival in glioma patients.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that symptoms such as headaches or seizures should not be ignored and that early MRI imaging can be life-saving.

Follow-up and Rehabilitation After Treatment

After glioma treatment, patients should be monitored regularly for neurological changes.

Neuropsychological assessments, physical therapy, and speech therapy can help preserve brain functions.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that postoperative care should be managed not only medically but also with psychological and social support.

Gliomas (glial tumors) are serious tumors that develop in the brain and spinal cord. Their progression can vary significantly among patients, so personalized treatment planning is essential.

With early diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment, and lifestyle adjustments, the quality of life of glioma patients can be significantly improved.

With many years of experience in neurosurgery, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı offers safe and modern treatment approaches for glioma patients by combining microsurgery, radiosurgery, and personalized medical therapies.