A survey of 790 cases of astrocytoma

790 cases of cerebral astrocytoma, which consisted of 181 cases of astrocytoma grade I, 282 cases of grade II, and 327 cases of grade III-IV, histopathologically verified, are presented. The sex and age distribution, topographical distribution of the tumours, and clinical manifestations are analyzed. A total of 862 operations were performed, and 69 cases (8.6%) were operated on more than twice for recurrence. The operative mortality was 7.7%. 179 of the survivors following operation received a combined treatment with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Based on the follow-up study of 170 cases, the factors which may correlate with the length of survival, are discussed.