Treatment of Gliomatosis in Israel

Numerous reviews indicate that international patients appreciate the well-organized treatment process, comfortable conditions, and the provision of a companion who helps resolve organizational issues in a foreign country. The affordable cost of therapy is also of great importance. Despite the negative prognosis of the disease, Israeli clinics manage to alleviate symptoms as much as possible, slow the progression of the malignant process, and maintain the patient's quality of life.

About the Disease

Gliomatosis of the brain is a rare form of glial tumor, where malignant cells affect several areas of the brain, spreading diffusely without clear boundaries. In the last decade, gliomatosis is no longer considered a separate disease, but rather an aggressive type of diffuse glioma.

Depending on the type of cells in the tumor zone, the following types of gliomatosis are distinguished:

• astrocytic (the most common);
• oligodendroglioma;
• glioblastoma (the most aggressive).

The exact causes of the disease development have not been established, but factors contributing to the mutations characteristic of tumor gliocytes have been identified.

Factors stimulating the malignant transformation of cells include:

• chemical and physical mutagenic factors (radioactive radiation, toxic chemicals, food dyes and emulsifiers, air contaminated with industrial waste);
• oncogenic viruses (herpes virus, cytomegalovirus);
• suppression of the immune system (immunosuppressive effects of certain medications, long-term chronic diseases);
• some hereditary diseases;
• genetic predisposition.

It is important to note that neither frequent stress nor traumatic brain injuries are considered proven causes of gliomatosis.

Since gliomatosis spreads diffusely, clinical signs can vary significantly and gradually increase. The main symptoms of the disease include:

• headache;
• signs of increased intracranial pressure (nausea, vomiting, feeling of pressure on the eyes);
• dizziness;
• neurological disorders (coordination impairment, unsteady gait, speech and vision problems);
• cognitive changes (memory decline, inability to concentrate, slowed thinking, difficulties in performing routine tasks);
• behavioral changes (increased irritability, aggressiveness, decreased activity, apathy);
• epileptiform seizures (often one of the first signs).

Treatment Methods for the Disease

Since the tumor has a diffuse nature and affects several areas of the brain, treatment of gliomatosis must be comprehensive. At Ichilov Clinic, therapy is based on a multidisciplinary approach: neuro-oncologists, radiologists, chemotherapists, and molecular diagnostics specialists collaboratively develop an individual treatment plan.

Chemotherapy

Typically combined with radiation therapy sessions. At Ichilov Clinic, chemotherapy courses are conducted using the latest chemotherapeutic agents that combine efficacy and minimal toxicity. These drugs do not cause severe side effects, which are particularly difficult for weakened patients to tolerate. The most effective combination is polychemotherapy. Their selection depends on the molecular profile of the tumor.

Radiation Therapy

Ichilov Clinic widely uses modern pinpoint radiation methods, which is especially important for diffuse tumors. IMRT is usually applied – high-precision radiation using modern computerized accelerators. This technique allows for maximum doses to be delivered specifically to the massive areas of gliomatosis while having minimal negative impact on important brain structures. The therapeutic effect is enhanced when radiation is combined with chemotherapy.

Targeted and Molecularly-Directed Therapy

Targeted therapy is treatment that affects specific molecular mechanisms that ensure the growth and survival of tumor cells. In the case of brain gliomatosis, this method is particularly valuable, as classical surgical methods are ineffective for diffuse oncological diseases. In Israeli clinics, an extensive genetic analysis of the tumor tissue sample is conducted before prescribing targeted therapy. The advantages of this method include its high selective efficacy and the absence of severe side effects in the patient.

Immunotherapy

For certain molecular characteristics of the tumor, drugs that enhance the patient's own anti-tumor immunity may be used. Ichilov Clinic employs drugs based on specific monoclonal antibodies.

Symptomatic and Supportive Therapy

Since gliomatosis causes a wide range of neurological disorders, Ichilov Clinic pays great attention to supporting brain functions. The treatment program includes:

• medication therapy (anti-edema, anticonvulsants, drugs to control intracranial pressure);
• measures to prevent complications;
• physiotherapeutic methods;
• exercises to restore motor functions;
• sessions with a neuropsychologist.

Neurorehabilitation

At Ichilov Clinic, neurorehabilitation is included in the treatment plan from the very beginning. The rehabilitation program includes:

• correction of motor disorders;
• improvement of cognitive skills;
• sessions with a speech therapist and neuropsychologist;
• sessions on adaptation in daily life.

Innovative Programs and Clinical Trials

Since gliomatosis is an extremely rare and complex tumor, Israel actively participates in international research. Patients can gain access to:

• new molecular drugs;
• personalized treatment regimens based on tumor genetic markers;
• experimental combinations of chemotherapy and radiation sessions.

Diagnosis Methods for the Disease

Diagnosing gliomatosis of the brain is a complex task due to its diffuse nature: the tumor does not form clear boundaries and often affects several lobes at once. In Israel, advanced diagnostic protocols are used to accurately determine the extent of the tumor process and develop a personalized treatment strategy. At Ichilov Clinic, it is possible to conduct a comprehensive examination and establish an accurate diagnosis within three days.

First Day

Upon arrival at the clinic, the patient is directed to a primary consultation with the treating neuro-oncologist. During the appointment, the doctor reviews the provided medical documentation, performs a superficial examination, and refers the patient for necessary tests and consultations with narrow-profile specialists.

Second Day

Undergoing diagnostic examinations:

• advanced MRI examinations that provide significantly more information than standard studies (MRI with contrast, diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI), perfusion MRI, MR spectroscopy) — this combination allows for the detection of even subtle areas of infiltration;
• functional MRI;
• PET-CT and PET-MRI;
• tractography — allows visualization of the pathways of nerve impulse conduction;
• stereotactic biopsy with subsequent molecular diagnostics — obtaining a sample of tumor tissue followed by deep genetic analysis, providing data on the presence of specific mutations and other tumor markers, which helps determine prognosis and select personalized treatment.

Third Day

The results of the examinations are submitted for review by the medical council. Specialists study the obtained information, collectively establish a diagnosis, and develop a strategy for further treatment.

How Much Does Treatment Cost

Advantages of Treatment in Israel

• High qualification of neuro-oncologists.
• Use of advanced anti-tumor methods.
• Conducting treatment on the latest equipment.
• Comfortable conditions and psychological support.
• Reasonable prices.

International patients can undergo an online consultation with an Israeli specialist while staying at home. To do this, it is necessary to contact the clinic's consultant, arrange a consultation time, and provide medical documentation. The doctor will answer questions, assess the ongoing treatment, and advise on further actions.