Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 1/26/2008

Question
QUESTION: My ex-husband was diagnosed about ten years ago with a benign brain tumor. I'm not sure of the type, but I do know that it is inoperabe because in has entwined itself into his brain. They did chemo immediately and a few years later  radiation. The tumor never showed any signs of growth, but he continued to suffer symptoms such as seizures. Recently an MRI showed a spot on the tumor and they did a biopsy. The results were that the tumor has changed to stage IV malignant. Can you give me some idea as to what this means for his prognosis and treatment. Thank you.

ANSWER: That kind of change sometimes happens. Since his tuor remains inoperable only radiation therapy and chemo therapy remain. However a grade IV brain tumor has a very bad prognosis indeed and all what such therapies can do (also surgery if it had been possible) at best is to prolong survival time to some extent and hopefully to some extent and for some time decrease symptoms. That is unfortunately all. Here the situation is complicated by the fact that he has received radiation therapy earlier which reduces the possibilities of such therapy now quite a lot. I'm sorry I have nothing better to tell you!


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QUESTION: Can you tell me the average life expectancy of someone with this type of condition? Is there any possibility that chemo can remove the cancer? What symptoms do people with this condition normally exhibit from diagnosis on? I appreciate your help. We have 2 young children together so I am quite concerned and afraid of the unknown. Thank you.

Answer
Usually not much more than a year. No unfortunately I do not think so, it can only give a temporary help. Well, patients become more & more confused, may show stroke like symptoms, may get epileptic fits. Later on they will sleep more and more, then drift into a coma and then pass away. There will be little pain - if any. I'm sorry I have nothing better to tell you!