High Grade Glioma

The patient in her 50’s presented with progressively worsening headache and dizziness. What’s remarkable about this case is that just days prior to her admission to the hospital she was given an antidepressant for “anxiety” and “depression”. Newly developing hand and leg numbness were the symptoms that prompted evaluation with a CT scan.

The patient ended up having craniotomy with tumor debulking. About 95% of the mass could be removed surgically. The final pathology – high grade glioma.

The size of this tumor and the delayed presentation of the patient with very non-specific complaints emphasize the significance of a thorough evaluation of the patient with headache. Warning signs like nausea, dizziness and numbness should prompt earlier imaging of the brain.