What questions should I ask after a glioblastoma diagnosis

Questions to Ask After a Glioblastoma Diagnosis

Here are the key questions that will help you understand your situation and treatment options:

About Your Specific Tumor

• "What grade is my glioblastoma, and what does that mean?"
• "What genetic mutations or markers does my tumor have?" (This matters for treatment choices)
• "What's driving my tumor growth?" (This helps identify personalized treatment options)
• "How large is the tumor, and where exactly is it located in my brain?"

About Treatment Options

• "What are ALL my treatment options—surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, clinical trials, and newer approaches?"
• "Are there clinical trials available for my specific tumor type?"
• "Should I get a second opinion on my diagnosis and treatment plan?"
• "What's the standard treatment you recommend, and why?"

About Testing

• "Should I have comprehensive genomic profiling (genetic testing) of my tumor?"
• "Will you do molecular testing to identify actionable mutations?"
• "Can I get a copy of my pathology report and genetic test results?"

About Your Care Team

• "Do you specialize in glioblastoma treatment?"
• "Will you work with me to explore personalized treatment options?"
• "If current treatment isn't working, will you help me find other options or specialists?"

About Your Family

• "Should my family members be tested for genetic predisposition to cancer?"

According to the Musella Foundation's Brain Tumor Guide and Cancer Commons resources, asking about genetic markers and treatment options early helps you make the best decisions for your care.

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.