PUNE: A 50-year-old female from Solapur fought back against Glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Glioblastoma is a type of cancer that can occur in the brain or the spinal cord. Glioblastoma forms from cells called ‘Astrocytes’ that support nerve cells.
Glioblastoma can occur at any age but tends to occur more often in older adults. It can cause worsening headaches, nausea, vomiting and seizures. Glioblastoma, also known as Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), can be very difficult to treat.
Doctors said that treatments may slow the progression of cancer and reduce signs and symptoms. But the survival rate is not good. The most common length of survival following diagnosis is 12 to 15 months, with fewer than 3 per cent to 5 per cent of people surviving longer than five years. Speaking about the case, Dr Minish Jain, Consultant Physician at Ruby Hall Clinic, said that the female from Solapur, who had a history of epilepsy was diagnosed with Glioblastoma.
“Thereafter, she underwent a brain surgery. Post surgery, when she came to us, she had nauseatic and vomiting sensation and occasionally lost her balance and couldn’t walk properly. While the chances of survival are not good in people suffering from GBM, the post-surgical care is of utmost importance as there is a risk of recurrence of a tumour,” said Dr Jain. He further added that a radiation therapy was started to clear the leftover tumour cells and prevent recurrence.
“She continued the treatment for 5 years and relentlessly strived to fight back. Her problems were aplenty with less or no finances and travelling from Solapur. We focused on her treatment with daycare and finally now when she came to us last week, the scans showed she had steered clear of the tumour, which is very rare. This is inspiring and gives hope to all those suffering from this aggressive type of cancer,” added Dr Jain.
