A review of the symptomatic management of malignant gliomas in adults

Abstract

Malignant brain tumors are aggressive tumors with a very poor prognosis. Survival is on average 12 to 18 months. Patients with malignant gliomas are subject to multiple medical problems that can significantly impact their overall survival and quality of life, including seizures, cerebral edema, venous thromboembolism, cognitive and psychiatric disorders, and side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, vomiting, myelosuppression, constipation, and diarrhea. This article examines the evidence for managing many of these issues to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.