Therapy of glioblastoma multiforme: a cumulative experience of 10 years

Abstract

Purpose: Comparison of the effect of different therapeutic modalities on survival time of patients with glioblastoma multiforme operated on during the last decade (1980-1990).

Patients and methods: The records of 157 consecutive patients with the histological diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme were analysed for survival with respect to age of patients, extent of surgery, influence of re-operation and adjuvant postoperative treatment. The latter included fractionated radiotherapy, chemotherapy (BCNU. CCNU with Vincristine) and photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Results: Analysis of variance showed a significant effect for survival after macroscopically radical surgery (p = 0.005), postoperative radiotherapy (p < 0.001), chemotherapy (p < 0.01). Low age (p < 0.05) and a postoperative Karnofsky performance score (KPS) > or = 60 (p < 0.001) had a positive influence: the site of tumour and pre-operative presence of seizures had no significant influence (p > 0.1) on survival time.

Conclusion: We conclude that the current adequate management of glioblastoma multiforme should include surgical resection followed by adjuvant treatment such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.