Is there a cure for cerebral astrocytomas?

Cerebral astrocytomas cannot be cured, but in some cases they can be treated effectively. Surgical removal of all or part of the brain tumor may be an option, especially if it is relatively slow-growing and benign, meaning that it has not invaded surrounding brain tissue. However, after surgery lifelong follow-up with periodic medical exams and tests will still be necessary in case the tumor reappears. Unfortunately, many cerebral astrocytomas are malignant and cancerous and may not respond well to treatment. These can be life-threatening.