Multifocal complex glioneuronal tumor in an elderly man: an autopsy study: case report

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Neuropathology
• Tumor Histogenesis

Background:

• Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors (DNT) and rosette-forming glioneuronal tumors (RGNT) represent distinct entities within the spectrum of glioneuronal neoplasms.
• The clinicopathological characterization of these tumors is continually evolving, with increasing recognition of overlapping features.

Observation:

• A 79-year-old male presented with neurological decline attributed to a third ventricular mass causing obstructive hydrocephalus.
• Autopsy revealed a complex glioneuronal tumor with mixed histological features of DNT (floating neurons) and RGNT (synaptophysin-positive rosettes).
• The tumor exhibited pilocytic astrocytoma characteristics with hemorrhage, alongside distinct DNT and RGNT components, predominantly around the third ventricle.

Findings:

• The autopsy confirmed a rare complex glioneuronal tumor in an elderly patient.
• Histopathological analysis demonstrated a unique combination of DNT and RGNT features within the same lesion.
• The tumor's location centered on the third ventricle was a notable characteristic.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for mixed glioneuronal tumors to exhibit features of both DNT and RGNT.
• The findings may contribute to understanding the histogenetic origins and potential relationship between DNT, RGNT, and other mixed glioneuronal tumors.
• The advanced age of the patient and the specific tumor distribution offer unique perspectives on these rare brain neoplasms.