GBM background information

Glioblastoma Multiforme
Some highlights:

The most common and aggressive type of primary brain tumor, accounting for 52% of all primary brain tumor cases and 20% of all intracranial tumors.

The five year survival rate of the disease has remained unchanged over the past 30 years and stands at less than three percent.

Tumor recurrence after surgery or radiation is almost inevitable, usually within 2 cm of the original site, and 10% may develop new lesions at distant sites. Reoperation or brachytherapy has been attempted, with uncertain results. The most aggressive therapy, a second surgery and chemotherapy, is generally used in those under 40 years of age whose original operation was many months earlier. If the PCV regimen has not been used, it may be tried; else, the newer agent temozolomide may be used. However, these regimens usually only increase the symptom-free interval, rather than prolong survival.