Cancer Types And The Cells They Originate From

Glioma

Glioma is a type of tumor that starts in the glial cells in the brain. Glial cells are the cells in the central nervous system that are supportive and do not conduct electrical impulses. These types of cells are responsible for providing insulation and support for neurons by surrounding them. Gliomas are considered intra-axial brain tumors due to their tendency to develop within the brain substance and mingle with normal brain tissues. There are six different types of glial cells and several types of gliomas that can form in the central nervous system. Astrocytomas are tumors that begin in the astrocytes or connective tissue cells. Brain stem gliomas develop in the glial cells of the brain stem. Ependymomas are tumors that develop out of the cells responsible for lining the spinal cord and brain ventricles. Mixed gliomas are brain tumors that include more than one type of glial cell. Oligodendrogliomas are tumors that develop in the oligodendrocytes or glial cells of the cerebrum. Optic pathway gliomas are cancerous tumors that develop in the cells that make up the optic chiasm or nerve.

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