long-term survival of six patients with glioblastoma multiforme: case series and review of the literature

the median overall survival in glioblastoma multiforme is usually less than one year. long-term survival is rare and is seen in only 3%-6% of gbm patients. the present study reports the characteristics and treatment outcomes of six cases of glioblastoma multiforme with long-term survival. a literature review is also presented. between 1990 and 2008, 217 glioblastoma multiforme patients have been treated at our center of which six cases (four males) survived for three years or longer. the mean age of the six cases was 25.7 years. all patients received postoperative radiotherapy with a mean dose of 55 gray and four patients received nitrosourea-based chemotherapy. patients' mean survival was 5.2 years. the results of this study and review of the literature have indicated that long-term (more than three years) survival is exceptional and mainly observed in younger patients with good performance status and following complete surgical tumor resection.