What Is Astrocytoma?

Common Symptoms

Several common symptoms occur in individuals with an astrocytoma. The severity and range of symptoms are dependent upon the location of the tumor in the brain. A slow-growing grade I or grade II astrocytoma may not manifest with noticeable symptoms since the brain can adapt to the slow-growing tumor being present over time. When symptoms do manifest, they are caused by growing pressure inside the skull on different parts of the brain or from the location of the tumor itself. Twitching and numbness in an individual's arm, leg, or face can be a manifestation of an astrocytoma, particularly when seizures are involved. Headaches that are persistent and severe, double or blurred vision, nausea and vomiting, appetite loss, mood and personality changes, changes in the ability to learn and think, gradual onset speech difficulties, and general weakness are all symptoms that are indicative of an astrocytoma. Should the astrocytoma develop in the cells located in the spinal cord, symptoms would include clumsiness in the legs, arms, and gait, along with bladder and bowel control problems.

Get familiar with the diagnostic measures for an astrocytoma next.