Sophie Kinsella, who wrote the Shopaholic book series, died aged 55 after being diagnosed with a form of aggressive brain cancer glioblastoma. The NHS outlines some of the key symptoms
Best-selling author Sophie Kinsella has tragically passed away at the age of 55, following a diagnosis of an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Kinsella was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a type of brain tumour more prevalent in older adults, towards the end of 2022. The NHS has described this specific form of brain cancer as “the most common and most malignant primary brain tumour.”
The health service further explained: “Glioblastoma multiforme usually spreads quickly to other parts of the brain. For this reason, these tumours are difficult to treat. It is not uncommon for them to recur after initial treatment.”
The creator of the Shopaholic book series, whose real name is Madeleine Sophie Wickham, publicly announced her cancer diagnosis in April 2024. At that time, she also shared that she had been undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments.
Brain Tumour Research reports that glioblastoma is the most frequently diagnosed high-grade brain tumour in adults, with a short average survival rate of between 12 and 18 months, and limited treatment options available, reports the Mirror.
Symptoms often appear suddenly, and seizures are also relatively common with this type of cancer. According to the NHS, symptoms include:
- headaches
- seizures (fits)
- persistent feelings of nausea, vomiting and drowsiness
- mental or behavioural changes, such as memory problems or changes in personality
- progressive weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- vision or speech problems
Tumours located in specific areas can lead to more unusual symptoms. For instance, frontal lobe tumours may result in mood and personality changes, asymmetrical weakness, and seizures causing jerking movements.
Temporal lobe tumours can trigger déjà vu, strange tastes and smells, as well as feelings of dissociation and panic. Seizures might cause patients to appear vacant, engage in chewing or swallowing, or make hand movements.
Memory and speech can also be impacted Parietal Lobe Tumours can lead to a loss of sensation or power on one side. During seizures, individuals may struggle with speech or comprehension.
Cerebellar Tumours can cause issues with balance and coordination, swallowing difficulties, double vision, and limb weakness.
The primary treatment approach is surgical removal. However, this type of tumour closely resembles normal brain tissue, making it challenging to completely remove.
While radiotherapy rarely cures glioblastoma, research indicates that it doubles the median survival of patients compared to supportive care alone.
When it comes to treating glioblastoma that recurs after radiation and temozolomide use, options may be limited. In such cases, symptom control with end-of-life care may occasionally be the most appropriate course of action.