American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the typical treatment for glioblastoma multiforme?

1. Chemotherapy only

2. Surgical resection followed by radiation and chemotherapy

3. Radiation therapy only

4. Immunotherapy

The correct answer is: Surgical resection followed by radiation and chemotherapy

The typical treatment for glioblastoma multiforme involves a multimodal approach, primarily consisting of surgical resection followed by both radiation therapy and chemotherapy. This combination is designed to maximize tumor removal while minimizing cancer recurrence. Surgical resection aims to remove as much of the tumor as is safely possible, as complete resection has been associated with improved survival rates. After surgery, radiation therapy is employed to target any remaining cancer cells in the brain, addressing local control of the disease. Concurrently, chemotherapy, usually with the drug temozolomide, is prescribed to further attack residual tumor cells and provide systemic treatment, enhancing overall survival. This integrated treatment strategy is based on the aggressive nature of glioblastoma multiforme, which is known for its high rate of recurrence and poor prognosis. By combining these treatment modalities, the goal is to improve outcomes and prolong survival in patients undergoing treatment for this challenging form of brain cancer.