Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Old Aged, Have Glioblastoma Brain Tumor, Told Its Cancerous, Now Doctor Are Saying Its Not.Confused
Dr..my 86 yr. old Mom has just been sent home to die with a Glioblastoma Brain Tumor ..Drs have explained that it is a very fast growing tumor that has already started spreading to the other side of her brain. The Tumor has effected her vision as while as her speech, however she speaks some but readily forgets. The Dr. explained at first, that this Tumor was cancerous, but because of her age would not recommend putting her through Chemo or Radiation ...Now we found out that Mom s Tumor was not cancer, but is moving quickly, and is fatal. Mom has been given 2-6 mo. I an my 8 siblings are totally confessed, can you give me a simple explanation as too why we are being told now that its not cancer? Thank you so much for your insight...Carolyn
posted on
Sun, 6 Oct 2013
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sun, 6 Oct 2013
Answered on
Mon, 7 Oct 2013
Last reviewed on
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about this diagnosis of glioblastoma in your mom.
If the diagnosis has not changed and remain same as glioblastoma multiforme, then it is a cancerous tumor. If they still call it like that, then know it is a cancer with a high capacity of spread that cannot be treated fully. If they have however found new clues or information that makes them to suggest otherwise, then let them share that with you. The diagnosis of cancer is made through a brain biopsy and reading of the specimen in a pathology laboratory. Was this the same for your mother?
I understand your frustration and I know it must be a very difficult moment for you and your entire family to sit and watch your mom slowly go down this way. I honestly pray you find the strength to pull through very demanding and difficult moments like these.
From the description of your mother's symptoms and progression, It sounds like she is living her last months or years. Stand by her in unity and make her feel and enjoy your warmth knowing there are persons who would standby her ll through.
I wish her the best of possible outcomes. Feel free to ask for clarifications if need be. Thank you so much for using our services.
Dr. Ditah MD
I am so sorry to hear about this diagnosis of glioblastoma in your mom.
If the diagnosis has not changed and remain same as glioblastoma multiforme, then it is a cancerous tumor. If they still call it like that, then know it is a cancer with a high capacity of spread that cannot be treated fully. If they have however found new clues or information that makes them to suggest otherwise, then let them share that with you. The diagnosis of cancer is made through a brain biopsy and reading of the specimen in a pathology laboratory. Was this the same for your mother?
I understand your frustration and I know it must be a very difficult moment for you and your entire family to sit and watch your mom slowly go down this way. I honestly pray you find the strength to pull through very demanding and difficult moments like these.
From the description of your mother's symptoms and progression, It sounds like she is living her last months or years. Stand by her in unity and make her feel and enjoy your warmth knowing there are persons who would standby her ll through.
I wish her the best of possible outcomes. Feel free to ask for clarifications if need be. Thank you so much for using our services.
Dr. Ditah MD
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Glioblastoma multiforme
Loading Online Doctors....