[Circumscribed Astrocytic Gliomas]

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Tumor classification
• Molecular pathology

Context:

• The 5th edition of the WHO Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System introduces new groupings for gliomas, glioneuronal, and neuronal tumors.
• Circumscribed astrocytic gliomas are distinguished by a contained growth pattern, contrasting with diffuse tumors.
• This category encompasses six distinct entities: pilocytic astrocytoma, high-grade astrocytoma with piloid features, pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, chordoid glioma, and MN1-altered astroblastoma.

Purpose:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the newly classified circumscribed astrocytic gliomas.
• To elucidate the etiology, clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, pathology, and molecular genetics of these tumors.
• To discuss current treatment strategies and prognostic factors for circumscribed astrocytic gliomas.

Summary:

• Circumscribed astrocytic gliomas, a distinct group in the latest WHO CNS tumor classification, exhibit a contained growth pattern.
• These tumors frequently harbor genetic alterations within the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway.
• The review covers their classification, clinical and pathological features, molecular underpinnings, and therapeutic approaches.

Impact:

• Facilitates a better understanding of these recently defined tumor types.
• Aids clinicians and researchers in diagnosing and managing circumscribed astrocytic gliomas more effectively.
• Contributes to advancing personalized medicine strategies for patients with these brain tumors.