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Translational Orthotopic Models of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Published on: February 17, 2023
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Pleural metastatic disease from glioblastoma multiforme
Michael B Gotway1, Paul J Conomos, Ross M Bremner
1Department of Radiology and Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA. mgotway@esmil.net
Journal of Thoracic Imaging
|July 17, 2010
Summary
Extracranial glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) metastases are rare but increasingly seen. Imaging may show pleural nodules, requiring biopsy for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive primary brain tumor associated with poor patient outcomes.
- While uncommon, extracranial dissemination of GBM is being increasingly reported.
- Advances in treating primary brain tumors are leading to improved survival, potentially increasing the incidence of extracranial metastases.
Observation:
- This case highlights the presentation of extracranial GBM metastases.
- The metastases manifested as well-defined nodules in the posterobasal pleura.
- These imaging findings are not pathognomonic for a primary central nervous system malignancy.
Findings:
- Extracranial GBM spread can present as circumscribed pleural nodules.
- Diagnosis is confirmed through biopsy, such as percutaneous or thoracoscopic procedures.
- Radiologists must consider GBM metastasis in differential diagnoses for pleural lesions.
Implications:
- Increased recognition of extracranial GBM spread is necessary for accurate diagnosis.
- As patient survival improves, thoracoabdominal imaging may increasingly reveal GBM metastases.
- Familiarity with these presentations aids in timely diagnosis and management of advanced GBM.
