Glioblastoma is one of the most challenging brain tumours diagnosed in adults. Information and support are available for patients and families at every stage.
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a fast-growing type of brain cancer and the most common form of aggressive brain cancer in adults. Standard treatment typically includes surgery followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and an active research community continues to investigate new therapeutic approaches.
Glioblastoma is a fast-growing, cancerous brain tumour, classified as a Grade 4 glioma. A glioma is a type of tumour that develops from glial cells, which are the supporting cells that surround and protect nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) classifies gliomas into four grades, from Grade 1 (slower-growing) to Grade 4 (faster-growing and more aggressive), based on how the tumour cells behave. As a Grade 4 glioma, glioblastoma sits at the highest grade in this classification, reflecting its more aggressive nature. It is one of the more common types of brain tumour diagnosed in adults, representing approximately 45–50% of gliomas.
Glioblastoma can develop anywhere in the brain, though it most often affects the main part of the brain (the cerebrum). It is most commonly diagnosed in adults, with an average age at diagnosis of around 64, though it can occur at any age, and can spread into surrounding brain tissue.
New or rapidly worsening headaches, unexplained seizures, progressive weakness in the limbs, speech difficulties, visual disturbances, or changes in personality or cognition should prompt urgent medical evaluation. Early assessment supports timely access to diagnosis and specialist care.
The symptoms of glioblastoma depend on where the tumour is in the brain and how large it has grown. They can develop gradually over weeks or appear more suddenly.
Headaches are a common early symptom and often become more noticeable over time, particularly in the morning or when lying down. New seizures occur in around 20–30% of patients and can sometimes be the first sign that leads to a diagnosis. Nausea and vomiting can also occur, and may be related to increased pressure inside the skull caused by the tumour.
Depending on where the tumour is located in the brain, some people experience weakness, difficulty speaking or finding words, changes in sensation or problems with part of their vision. These changes tend to relate to the specific area of the brain affected, and may develop gradually or, in some cases, appear more suddenly.
Some people notice difficulties with memory, concentration or planning and decision-making, which can be an early sign. Changes in personality or behaviour can also occur, and are sometimes mistaken for other causes before a diagnosis is made.
Glioblastoma is treated by a specialist team including brain surgeons, cancer doctors, radiotherapy specialists and other experts. The treatment plan is shaped by overall health, where the tumour is located and specific characteristics of the tumour.
Treatment typically begins with surgery to remove as much of the tumour as safely possible. This is usually followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy (temozolomide), often given at the same time. Tumour tests carried out at diagnosis help the care team understand the tumour and guide the treatment plan. For patients who are older or whose health requires it, treatment may be adapted to suit individual needs.
When glioblastoma returns after initial treatment, options may include further surgery where safe, more radiotherapy, a medicine called bevacizumab, a device that uses electrical fields to help slow tumour growth (tumour treating fields), and participation in clinical trials. Regular MRI scans are used to monitor how treatment is working.
Treatment decisions should always be made by a qualified healthcare professional based on the individual patient's circumstances.
Temozolomide is a chemotherapy medicine and a key part of the standard treatment for glioblastoma. It works by damaging the DNA of tumour cells, which stops them from dividing and growing.
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Patient associations and support groups are available for people affected by glioblastoma and their families. These organisations provide information and may offer opportunities to connect with others who have experience of the condition.
Provides comprehensive support, information and research funding for all brain tumour types, including glioblastoma — a trusted resource for patients and families in the USA.
Visit WebsiteA French neuro-oncology patient association providing support and information to patients and families affected by brain tumours, including glioblastoma.
Visit WebsiteGermany's leading brain tumour support organisation, offering information, counselling and community resources for patients and families affected by glioblastoma and other brain tumours.
Visit WebsiteAn Italian non-profit foundation dedicated to funding research and supporting families affected by brain tumours.
Visit WebsiteReceiving a glioblastoma diagnosis is a significant and personal experience. These are steps that patients and families often find most helpful in navigating care.
Glioblastoma management requires a multidisciplinary team including a neurosurgeon, neuro-oncologist, radiation oncologist, neuropathologist, radiologist and supportive care specialists. If you have not yet been referred to a specialist neuro-oncology centre, ask your treating physician for a referral. A second opinion from a specialist centre is always reasonable.
Your care team will carry out tests on the tumour to look for specific characteristics, including MGMT methylation and IDH mutation status. These results can help guide treatment decisions. Ask your specialist team what the results mean for your individual treatment plan.
Research into glioblastoma is active and ongoing. Ask your neuro-oncologist whether participation in a clinical trial or access to an investigational therapy might be appropriate for your situation. Clinical trial participation may provide access to treatments not yet widely available.
Patient organisations, specialist nurses, psychologists and social workers can provide valuable practical and emotional support. Connecting with others who have experience of glioblastoma — through patient associations or support groups — may be a meaningful source of support during treatment and beyond.
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