[Update on primary brain tumours].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Oncology
• Genetics

Background:

• Primary brain tumors are diverse, requiring precise classification for effective treatment.
• The 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) classification introduced molecular markers for improved diagnosis.
• Understanding these classifications is crucial for managing adult primary brain tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of common primary brain tumor types.
• To explain the implications of the 2016 WHO classification on clinical management.
• To discuss emerging novel therapeutic strategies for brain tumors.

Main Methods:

• Review of the 2016 WHO classification of central nervous system tumors.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria, including molecular markers (e.g., IDH mutations, 1p/19q co-deletion).
• Synthesis of information on common primary brain tumor entities and their prognoses.

Main Results:

• The 2016 classification utilizes molecular markers to define entities like oligodendrogliomas (1p/19q co-deletion).
• Astrocytomas are now stratified by isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status, impacting prognosis.
• Glioblastomas, the most common malignant adult brain tumors, are largely IDH wildtype with a poor prognosis.

Conclusions:

• The 2016 WHO classification significantly refines primary brain tumor diagnosis and stratification.
• Molecular markers are essential for accurate diagnosis and predicting patient outcomes.
• Future research directions include novel therapeutic approaches informed by these updated classifications.