Need help for necrosis of the brain from WBR
 

My daughter is now experiencing brain necrosis apparently from the WBR she had a year ago. Does anyone know what can be done to prevent the spread of necrosis? We're pretty desperate right now. My best to you all
Joyce

Re: Need help for necrosis of the brain from WBR
 

Joyce,

From the vocabulary section of www.Braintumor.org:

Necrosis – This simply means “dead tissue.” These dead cells are caused either by a lack of blood supply, because the tumor grows so fast that it outgrows its blood supply, or by radiation therapy. Necrosis is common with glioblastoma [a very aggressive type of brain tumor].

Seems several members here on the board have had surgeries to remove the necrosis.

I think the only possible way to 'reverse' the trend is through exercise. Exercise increases blood supply and possibly helps the neurons synapse and reconnect. We don't use but 2-5 % of our brain cells in our life time, and often time certain part of the brain can compensate/replace the function of the part that's 'dead'. Be sure to consult the rehabilitation department on physical therapy and occupational therapy.

Note: Be sure to read the new posting (# 6) about the hyperbaric chamber method of treating necrosis.

Re: Need help for necrosis of the brain from WBR
 

Can you give any more information, Joyce?

It is normal to see dying lesions. Are they increasing in size? Her healthy brain tissue should not be affected.

I know that every new development seems like a big problem, until it is fully understood and explained. Dig deep with the questions to her doctors. Ask until you feel you really understand her situation.

Re: Need help for necrosis of the brain from WBR
 

Thank you Jackie and Steph - they have been monitoring the brain via perfusion mri's and another test and dr. says it isn't tumor growth it is necrosis which is spreading. I'm at a loss of what to do here. My best to you
Joyce

Re: Need help for necrosis of the brain from WBR
 

Joyce: Any surgical options? Inquire about Hyperbaric Therapy.

Darlene

Re: Need help for necrosis of the brain from WBR
 

Just received a message from a new member on the subject:

Hi Jackie, when I had radiation induced necrosis in my brain from gamma knife procedure, my doctors used about four hours of hyperbaric chamber for I think about four days and then about an hour a day for two weeks. It along with steroids (I don't know which ones) were a successful treatment.

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From Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperbaric_medicine