Annals of neurology
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Annals of neurology · Aug 1999
Which glioblastoma multiforme patient will become a long-term survivor? A population-based study.
In this clinical and histopathological study, the frequency of long-term glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) survivors (LTGBMSs) was determined in a population-based study. The Alberta Cancer Registry was used to identify all patients diagnosed with GBM in Alberta between January 1, 1975, and December 31, 1991. Patient charts were reviewed and histology reexamined. ⋯ Radiation-induced dementia was common and disabling in LTG-BMSs. In conclusion, conventionally treated GBM patients in an unselected population have a very small chance of long-term survival. The use of aggressive surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy may make long-term survival more likely in GBM patients if their performance status is high at diagnosis.