Which of the following statements regarding glioblastoma multiforme is true?
High-Yield Explanation
Glioblastoma Multiforme most common form of primary intracranial neuroepithelial tumor. It represents 25% of all intracranial tumors and 50% of tumors originating in the central nervous system. It is a heterogeneous glial cell tumor derived from the malignant degeneration of an astrocytoma or anaplastic astrocytoma. These tumors are most commonly found in the cerebral hemispheres during the fifth decade of life. CT and MRI scans typically reveal an irregular lesion with hypodense central necrosis, peripheral ring enhancement of the highly cellular tumor tissue, and surrounding edema and mass effect. Curative resections are rare. Therapy consists of diagnostic biopsy followed by radiotherapy to slow the tumor growth. The course of the disease progresses rapidly after presentation, with few patients living more than 2 years.