Oligodendroglioma โ Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Oligodendroglioma starts as a cellular growth in the brain or spinal cord. These tumors develop from oligodendrocytes, special cells that create protective coverings for nerve cells and help electrical signals move properly through the nervous system.
Adults face a higher risk of developing oligodendroglioma, though it can affect people of any age.
Signs and Symptoms
When symptoms appear, they commonly include:
- Seizures
- Headaches
- Weakness in specific body parts
- Balance difficulties
- Behavioral changes
- Memory issues
- Numbness affecting one side of the body
- Speaking problems
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Physical disabilities
These symptoms may develop gradually over time, depending on the tumorโs location and growth rate.
When You Should Visit a Healthcare Provider
Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms that persist.
Donโt ignore ongoing neurological symptoms like headaches, vision changes, or seizures. Early evaluation can lead to better outcomes.
Causes
Oligodendroglioma develops from abnormal growth of oligodendrocytes, specialized cells that protect nerve cells and help transmit electrical signals in the brain. The exact cause of this tumor remains unknown in most cases.
The primary factor in tumor development is DNA changes within oligodendrocytes. In normal cells, DNA provides instructions for controlled growth, multiplication, and eventual cell death. When DNA mutations occur, these instructions become altered.
These genetic changes lead to:
- Rapid and uncontrolled cell growth
- Longer cell survival than normal
- Accumulation of excess cells
As the abnormal cells multiply, they form a mass that can press against nearby brain or spinal cord tissues. This pressure may interfere with normal brain function and cause symptoms.
Sometimes these DNA mutations transform tumor cells into cancer cells. When this happens, the cells can:
- Invade surrounding healthy tissue
- Destroy normal brain structures
- Spread to other areas
Scientists continue to research specific genetic factors that might increase the risk of developing oligodendroglioma.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase a personโs chance of developing oligodendroglioma:
- Radiation Exposure to the Head and Neck: Previous radiation treatments in these areas can raise the risk of developing this tumor later in life.
Age: While oligodendroglioma can occur at any age, it appears most frequently in middle-aged adults, particularly those in their 40s and 50s.
Race: This type of tumor is diagnosed more commonly in white individuals who are not of Hispanic heritage.
Currently, there are no known prevention methods for oligodendroglioma. Scientists continue to study these tumors to better understand their causes and potential ways to reduce risk.
