Updates on management of gliomas in the molecular age

Ali Ahmed Mohamed1, Rakan Alshaibi2, Steven Faragalla1

  • 1Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States.

Insights

This review explores current 2023 glioma treatments for adults and children, highlighting surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. It emphasizes tailored approaches for pediatric gliomas and molecular subtypes like isocitrate dehydrogenase mutant astrocytomas.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Cancer Therapeutics
  • Molecular Pathology

Background:

  • Gliomas are primary brain tumors affecting adults and children with varied characteristics.
  • Recent advancements in molecular classification and prognostic factors are reshaping treatment strategies.
  • Understanding glioma heterogeneity is crucial for effective therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current (2023) treatment modalities for adult and pediatric gliomas.
  • To discuss treatments based on glioma grade and molecular classification.
  • To identify gaps in knowledge regarding specific glioma subtypes and pediatric cohorts.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current clinical and molecular prognostic factors.
  • Analysis of established treatment paradigms including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
  • Examination of chemotherapy regimens like vincristine, carboplatin, and vinblastine.

Main Results:

  • Adult glioma treatment typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
  • Pediatric gliomas require individualized treatment plans, including chemotherapy for non-resectable cases.
  • Specific regimens like vincristine/carboplatin and vinblastine are used when initial treatments fail.

Conclusions:

  • Current glioma treatment is increasingly tailored to molecular classification and patient age.
  • Further research is needed on isocitrate dehydrogenase mutant astrocytomas and pediatric glioma therapies.
  • Optimizing treatment requires continued investigation into novel therapeutic approaches.

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