[Astroblastoma: A rare glial tumor].

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Astroblastoma is a rare neuroepithelial tumor primarily affecting children and young adults.
• Its rarity leads to frequent misdiagnosis, with ongoing debate regarding classification, histogenesis, and treatment.

Observation:

• A 21-year-old male presented with loss of consciousness, headaches, vomiting, and decreased visual acuity.
• CT and MRI revealed a left temporoparietal solid-cystic mass with heterogeneous enhancement and perilesional edema.
• Histopathology showed tumor cells in perivascular pseudorosettes, positive for GFAP, EMA, vimentin, and S100, confirming astroblastoma.

Findings:

• Diagnosis of astroblastoma relies on histopathological findings, specifically perivascular pseudorosettes, as clinical and imaging features are nonspecific.
• The 2016 WHO Classification categorizes astroblastoma under 'other glial neoplasms' without a grading system.
• Gross total resection is the primary treatment, though adjuvant therapy remains controversial.

Implications:

• This case highlights the diagnostic difficulties associated with astroblastoma, emphasizing the need for careful histopathological evaluation.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid treatment errors for this rare glial tumor.
• Further research is needed to establish reliable prognostic factors and optimize therapeutic strategies for astroblastoma.