DIPG

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive brain tumor that primarily affects children between the ages of 5 and 9. DIPG affects the pons, a group of nerves at the base of the brainstem which control vital functions such as breathing, sleeping, and communication. This difficult location makes DIPG inoperable in most cases. Instead, radiation is offered as a conventional treatment, and chemotherapy serves as an experimental option. Symptoms of DIPG include:
Slurred speech

  • Headaches
  • Unusual eye movements
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Trouble with balance
  • Weakness of the extremities
  • Loss of coordination

Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma, a carcinoma, is the most common and aggressive type of brain tumor and a grade four astrocytoma. With treatment, the average prognosis is only 12 to 15 months, or just a few months if left untreated. Anyone can develop glioblastoma, but it is most common in older adults. Symptoms often vary between patients, but you might experience:

  • Headaches
  • Neck pain
  • Changes in vision
  • Nausea
  • Disorientation
  • Difficulties speaking

Standard treatment for glioblastoma includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Many alternative options are also available for anyone looking to supplement or bypass the standard of care.

Astrocytoma

Astrocytomas are tumors that develop in your brain or spinal cord. These tumors affect astrocyte cells, which make up the central nervous system. Astrocytoma can be broken into two categories – benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

There are four grades, which vary based on growth and severity. The fourth and most serious grade is glioblastoma, which is both the most common and the most aggressive form of astrocytoma. Symptoms of astrocytoma include:

  • Headache
  • Seizures
  • Double or blurred vision
  • Speech problems
  • Cognitive difficulties
  • Limb weakness