Glioblastoma Treatment in Singapore

The most common type. It appears suddenly as an aggressive tumour without developing from a smaller, slow-growing tumour.

Starts as a lower-grade astrocytoma and becomes more aggressive over time. This type is less common and often affects younger adults.

This is the typical form seen in older adults. It grows quickly and is generally more resistant to treatment.

Less common and usually found in younger patients. It may respond better to certain treatments and tends to grow more slowly.

Surgery is usually the first step in treating glioblastoma. The goal is to remove as much tumour tissue as possible without affecting critical brain functions.

Craniotomy with tumour resection: The skull is opened to access and remove tumour tissue while avoiding areas that control speech, movement, or memory.

Awake craniotomy: The patient remains conscious during part of the surgery so the neurosurgeon can test brain function in real time and avoid damaging vital areas.

Image-guided surgery: Navigation systems provide detailed brain imaging to help the neurosurgeon precisely locate and remove the tumour.

Intraoperative monitoring: Real-time testing during surgery tracks brain signals to protect important functions throughout the procedure.

Other treatments are used after surgery to target remaining tumour cells and manage symptoms.

Radiotherapy: High-energy beams are directed at the tumour site to slow or stop its growth. This is usually given daily over several weeks.

Chemotherapy: Drugs such as temozolomide are used alongside radiotherapy to kill cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying.

Steroids: Medications like dexamethasone reduce swelling in the brain and help relieve symptoms such as headaches or weakness.

Anti-seizure medication: Prescribed if seizures occur, these help prevent further episodes and support daily functioning.