Managing Glioblastoma Expectations and Exploring Treatment Options

“That’s the first thing I talk about with the patients — that this is a tumor that is very, very difficult to control,” Dr. Newton explains. While this is a serious diagnosis, it is essential to remember that advancements in treatment continue to evolve, and each patient’s experience is unique.

What Are My Treatment Options?

After diagnosis, your medical team will outline various treatment strategies based on factors such as tumor location, overall health, and personal preferences. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapies aimed at reducing tumor size, alleviating symptoms, and prolonging survival.

Treatment may involve:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of as much of the tumor as possible is often the first step. While complete removal is challenging due to the invasive nature of glioblastoma, surgery can help reduce pressure on the brain and improve neurological symptoms.
• Radiation Therapy: Following surgery, radiation therapy is commonly used to target remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy involves high-energy X-rays or protons directed at the tumor site to slow its progression.
• Chemotherapy: Temozolomide (TMZ) is the most commonly used chemotherapy drug for glioblastoma. It works by interfering with the tumor’s ability to grow and divide. It is often used alongside radiation therapy and can be continued afterward as maintenance therapy.
• Tumor-Treating Fields (TTF): This innovative therapy uses electrical fields to disrupt cancer cell growth. It is a non-invasive option that can be used in combination with chemotherapy.
• Clinical Trials & Emerging Therapies: Ongoing research has led to promising new treatments, including immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and gene therapy. If you are eligible, participating in a clinical trial may provide access to experimental treatments that could be beneficial.

How Long Can I Keep This Tumor At Bay?

Glioblastoma is an aggressive cancer, but treatment can help slow its progression. While it is difficult to predict exact survival times, many factors influence prognosis, including age, overall health, genetic markers, and response to therapy.

“This is not a curable tumor per se,” Dr. Newton explains. “It’s a tumor where it’s aggressive enough that we’re trying to control it for as long as we can, manage it. When we talk about these patients at tumor board, the first thing we do is screen them for a clinical trial.”

Other factors that affect prognosis include:

• Extent of tumor removal: The more tumor tissue removed during surgery, the better the chances of controlling the disease.
• Response to treatment: Some patients respond better to chemotherapy and radiation than others.
• Molecular markers: Certain genetic mutations (such as MGMT methylation) may indicate a better response to treatment.

While glioblastoma has a median survival time of approximately 12-18 months with standard treatment, some patients live longer, especially when participating in clinical trials or using novel therapies.

What Side Effects Can I Expect?

Managing side effects is an essential part of treatment. Understanding potential challenges ahead of time can help you prepare and work with your medical team to maintain your quality of life.

Side effects might include:

• Fatigue: Cancer treatments can be exhausting, making rest and self-care important.
• Headaches and Seizures: Some patients experience headaches or seizures due to the tumor itself or treatments.
• Nausea and Appetite Changes: Chemotherapy and radiation may cause nausea, requiring dietary adjustments or medications to help.
• Cognitive and Memory Issues: Some treatments can affect memory, concentration, or problem-solving abilities. Cognitive therapy and lifestyle adjustments can help manage these challenges.
• Emotional and Psychological Effects

A glioblastoma diagnosis affects not only the body but also the mind and emotions. Many patients experience anxiety, depression, or mood swings. Seeking support through counseling, support groups, or loved ones can make a significant difference.

Your medical team can help you address side effects through medications, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Keeping an open dialogue with your doctors will ensure that your symptoms are managed effectively.

Maintaining Quality of Life

Even facing a diagnosis as serious as glioblastoma, there are steps you can take — beyond medical intervention — to ensure you are still making time to enjoy each day and practicing self-care.

These include:

• Staying active: Light exercise can help improve mood and energy levels
• Engaging in Enjoyable Activities: Reading, art, music, and other hobbies can offer a sense of normalcy
• Practicing Mindfulness and Relaxation: Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga may help with stress and anxiety

While glioblastoma is a challenging diagnosis, planning ahead can help alleviate some uncertainty. Discussing care preferences, setting goals, and making decisions with loved ones can provide a sense of control over your journey.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• Is my glioblastoma treatable?
• What is the likelihood that treatment will slow progression?
• Is there a clinical trial that might be right for me?
• What measures can we take to improve my quality of life?

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