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Astrocytomas: the clinical picture.
1University of Tennessee Bowld Hospital, 951 Court Avenue, 1st Floor PCS, Memphis, TN 38103, USA. Strru@meditech.bowld.utmem.edu
Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing
|March 23, 2001
Summary
Astrocytomas are common brain tumors originating from astrocytes, with a grim prognosis. Effective nursing care is crucial for managing treatment and providing end-of-life support for patients with these devastating intracranial tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Cancer research
- Nursing care
Background:
- Astrocytomas represent a significant portion of primary brain tumors.
- Brain cancer diagnoses in the US are projected at 16,500, with a high mortality rate.
- These tumors arise from astrocytes within the central nervous system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical role of nursing in managing astrocytoma patients.
- To underscore the challenges and impact of intracranial tumors on neurological function.
- To outline common treatment modalities for astrocytomas.
Main Methods:
- Review of current treatment strategies for astrocytoma.
- Analysis of the impact of intracranial tumors on patient quality of life.
- Examination of nursing interventions in oncology care.
Main Results:
- Astrocytomas have a limited average life expectancy of 18 months post-diagnosis.
- Intracranial tumors severely affect neurological functions vital to personhood.
- Standard treatments include surgery, radiation, biotherapy, and chemotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Nurses provide essential interventions, emotional support, and end-of-life care for astrocytoma patients.
- The devastating nature of astrocytomas necessitates comprehensive patient management.
- Understanding the disease and its impact is key to optimizing patient outcomes.