CT-guided stereotactic biopsy of brain tumors: pathologic considerations

Astrocytic tumors, the most common of the primary intracerebral neoplasms, are a heterogeneous group in terms of clinical behavior and pathologic appearance. Current histopathologic classification emphasizes this aspect; however, its application to tissue specimens removed by means of CT-guided stereotactic brain biopsy requires special considerations. Pertinent aspects of pathology relevant to assessment by CT scan stereotactic needle biopsy are discussed, together with a presentation of early results on the use of this diagnostic technique.