Understanding Glioblastoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Glioblastoma is one of those diagnoses that stops time. For doctors, it is a race against biology. For patients and families, it is often a shock that arrives without warning. Despite decades of cancer research, this brain tumour remains among the deadliest, not because doctors lack skill, but because the disease itself plays by ruthless rules. Unlike many cancers that grow as a single, removable mass, glioblastoma spreads its roots deep into healthy brain tissue. Tiny microscopic tendrils snake into surrounding areas, making it nearly impossible to remove completely. Even the most precise surgery leaves behind invisible cancer cells. “Glioblastoma is a medical emergency owing to its rapid growth and aggressive nature,” says Dr Khursheed Ansari, Senior Consultant, Neurosurgery, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai. “It infiltrates normal brain tissue, raises pressure inside the skull, and has a strong tendency to recur despite aggressive treatment.” Research has shown that some glioblastoma cells can double in size within just 48 hours. This explosive pace explains why symptoms worsen rapidly and why relapse is so common. Also read: Man donated his sperm with cancer-causing gene to conceive over 200 children; Here's what happened next Symptoms of glioblastoma Early signs of glioblastoma are frequently mistaken for stress, migraines, or ageing. This delay can be costly. “Patients often ignore the first signals because they seem harmless,” explains Dr Riddhijyoti Talukdar, Consultant, Radiation Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali. “But with glioblastoma, subtle symptoms can escalate frighteningly fast.” Common warning signs include Persistent or worsening headaches New-onset seizures in adults Weakness or numbness on one side of the body Difficulty speaking or understanding words Memory loss or personality changes Problems with balance or blurred vision If multiple symptoms appear together or worsen over days or weeks, urgent medical evaluation is essential. Risk and why prevention Glioblastoma risk increases with age and prior exposure to high-dose radiation to the head. Certain rare genetic conditions also raise susceptibility. However, unlike many cancers, there is no strong link to smoking, diet, or lifestyle. “This makes prevention extremely challenging,” Dr Ansari informs. “Many patients have no obvious risk factors at all.” Also read: Third-hand smoking puts children and elderly at home at risk, expert lists tips to protect against its toxic effect Treatment options Standard treatment involves a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. While these approaches can slow the disease and relieve symptoms, they rarely offer a cure. One major obstacle is the blood–brain barrier, which prevents many drugs from effectively reaching cancer cells. “Despite advances in radiation and targeted therapies, recurrence remains our biggest challenge,” says Dr Talukdar. “Early diagnosis, patient awareness, and continued research are critical if we want to improve survival and quality of life.” FAQs on glioblastoma: 1. What is glioblastoma? Glioblastoma is an aggressive and fast-growing type of brain cancer that develops from glial cells. 2. What are common symptoms of glioblastoma? Headaches, seizures, memory problems, personality changes, vision issues, and weakness on one side of the body. 3. What causes glioblastoma? The exact cause is unknown; genetic mutations and prior radiation exposure may increase risk. 4. How is glioblastoma diagnosed? Through brain imaging (MRI or CT scan) followed by a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. 5. What treatment options are available for glioblastoma? Treatment usually includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and supportive care to manage symptoms.