What Patients Say About Cancer Treatment at New Hope
What Is Diffuse Astrocytoma?
Winning the battle against a life-threatening disease begins with being armed with essential information.
Diffuse astrocytoma (grade II), also called low-grade glioma, is a slow-growing brain tumor that arises from astrocytes, the star-shaped supportive cells in the nervous system. Astrocytes are responsible for several functions, including providing nutrients to neurons, modulating neurotransmission, and managing the blood-brain barrier. When diffuse astrocytoma occurs, usually in the cerebral hemispheres of the brain, small groups of tumor cells grow into and infiltrate nearby healthy tissue.
Types of Diffuse Astrocytoma We Treat
Diffuse astrocytoma can be categorized into more specific subtypes based on genetic characteristics. To be specific, the brain tumor can have abnormal genetic signatures, including mutations in the IDH1 or IDH2 genes. These genetic differences can impact prognosis and treatment, and are classified accordingly:
- DH-mutant. A mutation in either IDH1 or IDH2 is found.
- IDH-wild type. No IDH mutations are identified.
- Not otherwise specified. The tumor has not been tested.
Diffuse Astrocytoma Symptoms in Men and Women
Some common signs of diffuse astrocytoma may include:
- Headaches
- Seizures
Additional symptoms depend on the size and location of the tumor, which may affect specific neurological functions. For example, a diffuse astrocytoma near the motor cortex (controls body movement) may cause progressive weakness on one side of the body. Speak with a medical professional if you experience irregularities in your health.
Diffuse Astrocytoma Causes
The causes of diffuse astrocytomas are not known although they may be associated with:
- Exposure to ultraviolet light and carcinogenic chemicals
- Immune system abnormalities
- Having had radiation therapy near the head
- A family history of genetic disorders, such as:
- Li-Fraumeni Syndrome
- Neurofibromatosis Type I (NF1)
- Tuberous Sclerosis
Not everyone with risk factors develops diffuse astrocytoma, and not all without risk factors is immune to the disease.
Diagnostic Tests for Diffuse Astrocytoma
Early diagnosis is key to improving your diffuse astrocytoma prognosis and life expectancy. To detect a brain tumor, your doctor will begin with a medical history and physical exam to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. Then, he or she may order the following tests to produce an accurate diagnosis:
- Neurological exam
- Molecular testing
- Lumbar puncture
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Biopsy
Why Choose Us for Diffuse Astrocytoma Alternative Treatments?
Our cancer care team at New Hope Unlimited is experienced in treating hundreds of tumor types, including diffuse astrocytoma. Everyone, from our administrative personnel to our surgical oncologist, understands that each progressive disease is unique. Therefore, we work closely with our patients to produce a tailored treatment program that focuses on their individual needs.
We offer the most advanced treatments for diffuse astrocytomas through our specialized center in Mexico where cutting-edge research meets world-class patient care. Click on the link to learn more about our holistic cancer treatment strategy.
Our Approach
Advanced Treatments for Diffuse Astrocytoma
Top-Rated Physicians
Personal Care
Patient SatisfactionOur Patient-Centric Medical Facilities
At New Hope Unlimited, we pride ourselves in providing superior comfort, cleanliness, and cancer care at our 8,000 square foot medical treatment center in San Luis Rio Colorado, Mexico. We worked with renowned architects and contractors to create the ideal space for recovery, which includes state-of-the-art lounge areas and spacious private in-rooms that assure the comfort of our patients and their loved ones. To make our patients feel right at home, we equip each private ward with high-definition U.S. television, quality bedding, and high-speed internet connection. And with proper nutrition playing a vital role in cancer recovery, New Hope Unlimited also fulfills the dietary needs of each patient using fresh, organic produce to prepare breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and dinners. Comfort and cleanliness are also strictly implemented in our medical treatment rooms, which are equipped with the latest medical supplies and technology to provide the highest standard of care and treatment. Our medical center also has an in-house Hyperbaric Chamber, a well-established therapy for decompression sickness, exclusively available for our patients’ use. Further, New Hope Unlimited has maintained its exceptional partnership with Hospital Migoo, a medical group composed of certified physicians and specialists committed to our patients’ care and well-being.Stories of New Hope
Life-changing tales of our cancer patients and survivors.
FAQs
1. How common is diffuse astrocytoma?
Diffuse astrocytoma is the second most prevalent glioma after glioblastoma. The disease accounts for about 2 to 5 percent of all primary brain tumors in adults. In 2017, approximately 1,400 new cases were diagnosed in the United States.2. What specific treatments does New Hope offer?
As our patient, you will receive a customized, holistic cancer treatment program based on several factors, including your stage of cancer and symptoms. Some specific treatments may include botanical therapy and chiropractic medicine, among others. Click on the link to get more information about our alternative diffuse astrocytoma treatments.