Newly Diagnosed

About low-grade astrocytomas

Low-grade astrocytomas are a type of low-grade glioma (brain tumors that form in glial cells) and include pilocytic astrocytomas. Treatment includes a combination of surgery, observation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy depending on the location, size, and molecular profile of the tumor.

Astrocytoma tumors start in star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes, a type of glial cell. Glial cells hold nerve cells in place, bring them food and oxygen, and help protect them from disease and infection.

Astrocytoma is the most common type of glioma diagnosed in children. It can form anywhere in the brain and central nervous system.

Common subtypes include pilocytic astrocytoma, diffuse astrocytoma, ganglioglioma, optic pathway glioma and can occur anywhere in the brain or spinal cord.

Low-grade vs. high-grade brain tumors

Low-grade means that the tumor cells and affected tissue look almost normal under a microscope. Low-grade tumor cells tend to grow and spread more slowly than high-grade tumor cells.

Low-grade tumors usually have a better chance of recovery than high-grade tumors.

Knowing whether a pediatric brain tumor is low-grade or high-grade may help guide your child’s treatment.