Publication

Tumorspezifische und symptomorientierte Therapie maligner Gliome

Journal Paper/Review - Jan 1, 2006

Units
Keywords
Malignant gliomas - palliative care - symptomatic therapy - radiotherapy - chemotherapy - anticonvulsants - corticosteroids - deep venous thrombosis

Citation
Hundsberger T, Wiewrodt D, Weber M. Tumorspezifische und symptomorientierte Therapie maligner Gliome. Zeitschrift für Palliativmedizin 2006; 7:11-18.
Type
Journal Paper/Review (Deutsch)
Journal
Zeitschrift für Palliativmedizin 2006; 7
Publication Date
Jan 1, 2006
Pages
11-18
Brief description/objective

Despite multimodal therapy malignant gliomas remain fatal diseases of the CNS. Glioblastomas, the most aggressive and malignant type, shows a median survival of almost one year. Although survival time of malignant gliomas has not improved over the last three decades, progresses in minimal invasive neurosurgery, neuroanesthesiology and radiotherapy led to decreased therapeutic morbidity in the light of palliative treatment. Chemotherapy additionally maintain quality of life. Palliative care of epilepsy with new anticonvulsant drugs show low side effects and little drug interactions. Long-term therapy of brain edema with steroids needs special attention regarding side effects like steroid-myopathy. Patients with malignant gliomas carry a high risk of thromboembolism. A treatment with low molecular weight heparin can be performed without increased risk of cerebral bleeding. In terminal stages of the disease severe neurological symptoms and loss of consciousness often require specialised professionals with palliative care experience.