What is Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)?
“The most common malignant brain tumor accounting for almost 50% of all cases. GBM is the most dangerous and aggressive form of brain cancer commonly found in the the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain and is classified as a grade IV astrocytoma. Cells grow rapidly, with large number of cells reproducing at any given time making GBM very resistant to treatment.”
Glioblastoma is the most common, complex, treatment-resistant, and deadliest type of brain cancer.
In most cases, the exact underlying cause of glioblastoma multiforme is unknown. In rare cases, it can occur in people with certain genetic syndromes, such as neurofibromatosis type 1, Turcot syndrome and Li Fraumeni syndrome (Penn Medicine).
For newly diagnosed GBM patients, the median progression free survival is 6.9 months, and median overall survival is 14.6 months (NIH). Many patients will lose their ability to work, drive, and a host of other functions that contribute to one’s sense of self and independence.
Despite glioblastoma being identified in the early 1920’s, there are only four FDA approved drugs and one device to treat glioblastoma. None of these treatments have succeeded in significantly extending patient lives beyond a few extra months.
Glioblastoma is also one of the most expensive cancers to treat, often leaving patients and families with major financial hardship on top of the burdens of the disease.