What is Oligodendroglioma with IDH Mutation and 1p/19q Co-deletion?
Oligodendroglioma with IDH Mutation is a type of brain tumour that starts from special brain cells called oligodendrocytes. These cells normally help protect and support the nerves in the brain. In this cancer, the cells begin to grow in an abnormal and uncontrolled way.
It has an IDH mutation and 1p/19q co-deletion, it means the tumour has certain genetic changes. Interestingly, these changes usually mean the tumour behaves better compared to other brain cancers and often responds more positively to treatment.
This cancer can affect both men and women, but it often appears in young to middle-aged adults, usually between the ages 30 and 50. It grows slowly, so symptoms may develop over a long period of time.
Symptoms
Symptoms are Seizures (fits), which may be the first sign in many patients. Headaches that gradually worsen. Weakness, numbness, or difficulty in movement. Trouble with memory, concentration, or speech and also, changes in personality or behavior.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually starts with MRI scans of the brain, which show where the tumour is located. To confirm, doctors do a biopsy (taking a small piece of the tumour) and check it under the microscope. Genetic testing is very important, as finding the IDH mutation and 1p/19q co-deletion helps doctors plan the best treatment.
Treatment
Treatment often includes surgery to remove as much of the tumour as safely possible. However, because the tumour grows inside the brain, sometimes complete removal is not possible. After surgery, patients may receive radiation therapy or chemotherapy (special anti-cancer medicines) to control the remaining tumour cells. A common chemotherapy drug used is temozolomide.
Prognosis
The outlook (prognosis) for people with this tumour is usually better than many other brain cancers, especially because of the genetic features. Patients often live many years after diagnosis, and with proper treatment, the tumour can be controlled for a long time. However, it is still a serious condition, and regular checkups are needed, as the tumour can grow back or change over time.
In simple words, oligodendroglioma with IDH mutation and 1p/19q co-deletion is a brain cancer that, while dangerous, tends to be more treatable and less aggressive compared to others. Early detection, good medical care, and ongoing monitoring play a key role in helping patients live a longer and better-quality life.
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