What is an astrocytoma?

What is an astrocytoma?

Astrocytomas are tumors found in the central nervous system (CNS) that grow from star-shaped astrocyte cells. Astrocytes are glial cells (the type of cells that provide supportive tissue in the brain).

Some types of astrocytomas have small areas of infiltration, while others are more spread out. There are several types of astrocytomas, including:

• Pilocytic: These tend to not spread and are considered to be noncancerous.
• Diffuse: These grow slowly.
• Anaplastic: These are rare but call for aggressive treatment.
• Glioblastoma: This type grows aggressively and is the most common cancerous primary brain tumor.
• Subependymal giant cell astrocytoma: This type is linked with tuberous sclerosis, a genetic condition.