Observations on the current treatment of low-grade astrocytic tumors of the cerebral hemispheres.

The records of 60 patients with low-grade astrocytic tumors of the cerebral hemispheres treated between 1975 and 1985 were examined to evaluate the results of current treatment methods. This analysis revealed that the patient's age and tumor enhancement on computerized tomography (CT) with intravenous administration of contrast material were the only factors that influenced survival time. Compared to prior studies, the patients in this report more frequently had normal preoperative neurological examinations and total resection of their lesions. These differences may have resulted from the use of CT scans over the past decade. Earlier diagnosis and improvement definition of the tumor location and extent are two reasons why the use of CT scans may have affected outcome statistics. A re-examination of treatment methods and the timing of those treatments is needed to define the optimal management of these lesions.