Are all cases of Glioblastoma multiforme fatal?

Question

A good friend was diagnosed with grade for brain cancer (astrocytoma). It was in her brainstem, and they found it very quickly. It was removed and was about the size of a pea. She's 25 and in good health otherwise.

All the readings I've found say it's nearly ALWAYS terminal, but the cases they referece are HUGE terminals in the cerebrum or other parts of the brain.

Is it possible my friend's cancer will be less severe because they found it so early and it was still so small?

Answer 1

You're talking apples and oranges here.
Glioblastoma Multiforme and astrocytoma are two DIFFERENT types of brain cancer. The prognosis can be very good for surviving astrocytoma, especially if it was only the size of a pea. Many astrocytomas are very slow-growing, as well.
Glioma is a very different animal, though. It is typically very aggressive and is fatal in over 95% of cases.

Answer 2

My uncle just died from the same form of cancer....it was stage 4 & he was diagnosed after suffering from very painful headaches - he fought it so unbelievably hard, but after 4 surgeries it just kept growing back - it took a year & 1/2 & he passed - he was also healthy & very active up until his body began to shut down - a miracle is what everyone was holding out for the entire time....I'm sorry for the bad news & what your friend is facing - be supportive, loving & listen the best you can....

Answer 3

There are long term survivors.

David M Bailey (10.5 year survivor)
http://www.davidmbailey.com/history.cfm

Please keep in mind that life is terminal for us all and that no one can accurately predict when someone else will die . . even if they have glioblastoma multiforme. Everyone is an individual. There is always hope.

Your friend might benefit from joining an online support group of young adults:


Young Adults Surviving Glioblastoma
http://www.yasg.com/i

Answer 4

I did some research on the subject b/c during nursing school, I had a patient with this condidtion. It has a 3-5% survival rate. Not great, but a small one. My instructor's father had died from it and he had me look it up for the rest of the class.

Answer 5

Is Glioblastoma Terminal

Answer 6

This question is worth people's attention

Answer 7

Miracles can happen.
don't listen to other people when they tell you it's always fatal. It really depends on her willingness to live .
Doctors will only tell you their prognosis from the research they have done, however every person is different.

I have read some survival stories.. I read or heard of up to 12 years ago, and still alive.
also you have to have faith, and the power of prayer is your #1 answer.