Astrocytoma Newport Beach & Orange County, CA

Astrocytoma Treatment in Orange County

Astrocytoma Newport Beach & Orange CountyAstrocytoma tumors grow from the star-shaped glial cells, astrocytes, which play a fundamental part in supporting the brain. Astrocytomas are typically located in the cerebrum but can occur anywhere in the brain and occasionally in the spinal cord. Astrocytomas are seldomly found outside the brain or spinal cord. Astrocytomas may either be benign or malignant.

Anyone may develop astrocytomas but are more common in adults and slightly more common in men. Astrocytomas make up a majority of brain tumors found in children.

Currently, there are several theories behind the causes of astrocytomas which include exposure to chemicals and genetics. However, as with all tumors, the exact cause is unknown.

Because there are different types of astrocytomas with varying grades, symptoms are also different. Typically, these are the most common symptoms experienced:

  • Headaches and dizziness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Loss of appetite
  • Confusion
  • Behavior and personality changes
  • Difficulty in motor skills
  • Enlarged skulls in infants

Diagnosis can be determined by reviewing medical histories and performing physical and neurological examinations. Blood, urine, vision, and hearing may be tested by Dr. Louis. Brain imaging procedures such as CT scans and MRI scans are used by Dr. Louis to determine the size and location of an astrocytoma.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI uses magnetic fields to produce detailed images of the body. A special dye called a contrast medium is injected into a patient’s vein before the scan to create a clearer picture.

Stereotactic neurosurgery/Biopsy: Dr. Louis will perform this technique, which uses a needle guided to the tumor or it can be done during surgery when the surgeon can look at the astrocytoma brain tumor in Newport Beach directly. This process is crucial as it will dictate the best course of treatment and will also give important information about the prognosis.

Each treatment for an astrocytoma tumor depends on the type, size and location of the tumor. Although there are different variations of astrocytomas, the best course of action with astrocytomas is surgical removal. Dr. Louis will recommend the best option to continue.

Dr. Louis may recommend radiation after surgery in the case that of lingering tumor cells. Patients will be observed carefully after for signs of astrocytoma reoccurrence.

Minimally Invasive Keyhole Brain Surgeries
Robert Louis specializes in the minimally invasive removal of chordoma. Less invasive keyhole surgical approaches incorporate Dr. Louis’ experience and education with cutting-edge technology and instrumentation.

Robert Louis, MD, a fellowship-trained Orange County Brain Surgeon, is the Director of the Skull Base and Pituitary Tumor Program at Hoag Memorial Hospital in Orange County, California. Dr. Louis has particular expertise in the endoscopic and minimally invasive treatment of benign and malignant brain tumors, sellar and parasellar tumors, and skull base tumors.

Orange County neurosurgeon, Dr. Louis, specializes in minimally invasive neurosurgery for the treatment of spinal cord tumors. For appointments, please call (949) 383-4185 or Contact Us.