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Supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumors in adults
Dong Gyu Kim1, Dong Yeob Lee, Sun Ha Paek
1Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Clinical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea. gknife@plaza.snu.ac.kr
Journal of Neuro-Oncology
|November 6, 2002
Summary
Supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs) in adults share clinical features and prognosis with pediatric cases. Intratumoral calcifications and Ki-67 index may indicate prognosis in these rare brain tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Adult neurosurgery
- Neuroradiology
Background:
- Primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs) are rare, aggressive brain tumors.
- Supratentorial PNETs are uncommon in adults, often presenting diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze clinical features, treatment, and prognosis of adult supratentorial PNETs.
- To identify potential prognostic factors for adult supratentorial PNETs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective clinical analysis of 12 adult patients with supratentorial PNET.
- Review of clinical data, neuroimaging (MRI, CT), treatment, and survival outcomes.
Main Results:
- Most patients presented with increased intracranial pressure; common tumor location was posterior parieto-occipital.
- Characteristic MRI findings included large, lobulating masses with intratumoral cysts, necrosis, or hemorrhage.
- Patients with intratumoral calcifications survived, while high Ki-67 index (>30%) correlated with poorer outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Adult supratentorial PNET should be considered in differential diagnoses based on characteristic radiological features.
- Clinical presentation and prognosis appear similar to pediatric PNETs.
- Intratumoral calcifications and Ki-67 labeling index may serve as prognostic indicators, warranting further investigation.