Clinical Presentation, Natural History, and Prognosis of Diffuse Low-Grade Gliomas

Diffuse low-grade gliomas (DLGGs) are primary brain tumors characterized by slow growth but extensive infiltration into the surrounding brain. Patients are typically 30 to 40 years at disease onset and present with focal or focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures. The tumor will transform into a malignant glioma and eventually lead to death, but after varying lengths of time. The specific features of DLGG impose a major challenge to decide optimal treatment strategies and timing of treatment, while maintaining patients' quality of life. We discuss the clinical challenges at disease onset with regard to the natural history and long-term prognosis.