There are several factors that can influence an astrocytoma prognosis for patients with this type of brain tumor. Astrocytomas are graded from one to four, and the grade of the tumor plays a big role in how effectively it can be treated. The location of the tumor in the brain is important, as this can determine if surgery is possible to remove it. How well the tumor responds to treatment with other therapies like radiation or chemotherapy is also important. The age and overall health of the patient when diagnosed also play roles.
One of the most important considerations when making an astrocytoma prognosis is the grade of the patient's tumor. Those with tumors at grades one or two, which are considered low grade, often have a very good survival rate, particularly if the tumor can be completely surgically removed. Grade three patients have a less positive outlook, though they can still live for several years if treatment is effective. Prognosis for grade four patients, where the tumor is very fast growing, is typically very poor, with most living less than a year after diagnosis.
Another factor that plays heavily into an astrocytoma prognosis is where the tumor lies in the brain. This is mainly because a person with a tumor that can be completely removed surgically has a better chance of survival than someone whose tumor can only be partially removed or not removed at all. Surgery is not an option if the tumor is near certain structures in the brain, as cutting near them is too risky and can be life-threatening. Also, if the tumor is confined to one area, it is much easier to remove than if it has spread to different parts of the brain.
If a tumor cannot be totally removed with surgery, then its responsiveness to other forms of treatment affects astrocytoma prognosis. Radiation or chemotherapy may be used in cases where the tumor is inoperable or if there are cancer cells left behind after the main tumor is taken out. If the remaining cells can be destroyed with these methods, the patient likely has a better chance of recovery; if the tumor is too widespread or fast moving, though, they may be less helpful.
A patient's age and health also influence his or her astrocytoma prognosis. Younger patients tend to fare better than those who are older when diagnosed. The person's general health is also important, as it affects his or her ability to undergo treatment and fight the disease.
