Thalamic Astrocytoma and Hypothalamic Astrocytoma | Diagnosis & Treatments
How are thalamic and hypothalamic astrocytomas diagnosed?
A physician may order a number of different tests to best diagnose thalamic or hypothalamic astrocytoma, including:
- physical exam
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- biopsy
After all tests are completed, doctors will be able to outline the best treatment options.
What are the treatment options for thalamic and hypothalamic astrocytomas?
A number of treatments may be recommended for thalamic or hypothalamic astrocytomas. Some help treat the tumor, while others address complications of the disease or side effects of treatment. These include:
- neurosurgery
- chemotherapy
- radiation therapy
Progressive or recurrent disease
There are many standard and experimental treatment options for children with recurrent or progressive thalamic or hypothalamic astrocytomas. If a tumor recurs after initial surgical removal or the tumor re-grows after partial removal, a doctor may recommend a second attempt at removing as much of the tumor as possible.