Oligodendroglioma Overview

An oligodendroglioma is a relatively rare type of brain tumor that originates in specialized cells known as oligodendrocytes. A critical component of the central nervous system (CNS), the oligodendrocytes produce myelin, which forms the insulating sheath that surrounds and protects the nerve cells. Myelin also facilitates the flow of electrical signals within the brain and spinal cord.

Also known as low-grade gliomas, oligodendrogliomas typically form in the white matter or the outer layer of the brain (cortex), but they can occur anywhere in the CNS. Though uncommon, the cancer can spread to other areas of the CNS via the cerebrospinal fluid. Oligodendrogliomas rarely spread beyond the CNS to other organs and tissues.

What causes oligodendroglioma?

Like all cancers, oligodendroglioma results from rapid and uncontrolled cell division. For reasons that are not yet fully understood, healthy oligodendrocytes sometimes undergo harmful changes that damage their DNA, which contains the instructions for cell growth. The mutated cells then replicate, build up and form tumors.

Through extensive research, scientists have identified some risk factors for oligodendroglioma, which include:

• Prior radiation exposure
• Certain gene changes that can be passed from parent to child

Although oligodendroglioma can occur at any age, it is most frequently diagnosed in people between the ages of 35 and 44.

What are the signs of oligodendroglioma?

Oligodendroglioma symptoms can vary based on the size of the tumor and its location in the CNS. The most common sign is a seizure, which approximately 60% of patients experience before their diagnosis is confirmed.

Other symptoms of oligodendroglioma can include:

• Headaches
• Memory loss
• Mental confusion
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Balance and coordination issues

How is oligodendroglioma diagnosed?

If oligodendroglioma is suspected, a physician will typically perform or order a series of tests and procedures, including:

• A neurological examination - After reviewing the symptoms, the physician will assess the patient’s vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength and reflexes. Issues in any of these areas can provide clues about the area of the brain affected by the tumor.
• Imaging - A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, such as a functional MRI or magnetic resonance spectroscopy, can help the physician pinpoint the location and size of the tumor.
• A biopsy - To examine the cellular characteristics of the tumor and determine if it is cancerous, a neuropathologist will view a small sample of tumor tissue under a microscope.

A biopsy is the only way to conclusively diagnose oligodendroglioma. In most cases, the diagnosis is confirmed after all or a portion of the tumor is surgically removed. If surgery is not possible due to the size or location of the tumor, the tissue sample may be collected with a needle. 

How is oligodendroglioma treated?

When possible, the first-line treatment for oligodendroglioma is surgery. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without disrupting the surrounding critical structures.

Further oligodendroglioma treatment can vary based on the patient’s age and overall health, the tumor type and location and, if surgery was performed, the amount of tumor tissue remaining. Some options include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Clinical trials

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

As a high-volume cancer center, Moffitt treats patients with all types of brain cancer, including oligodendrogliomas and other rare and complex tumors. Our outstanding neurosurgeons have the refined expertise and state-of-the-art tools necessary to meticulously analyze the relationship between a tumor and the nearby critical structures in the brain. Our overriding goal is to strike the right balance between maximizing tumor removal and preserving neurological function.

As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Moffitt has a robust portfolio of clinical trials, allowing many of our patients to be among the first to benefit from breakthrough treatment options that are not yet widely available.

You do not need a referral to consult with a specialist in the renowned Neuro-Oncology Program at Moffitt. Request an appointment by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online.