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Updated: May 10, 2026
Making MR Imaging Child's Play - Pediatric Neuroimaging Protocol, Guidelines and Procedure
Published on: July 30, 2009
Imaging of pediatric glioneuronal and neuronal tumors
Vivek Pai1,2, Suzanne Laughlin1,2, Birgit Ertl-Wagner3,4
1Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 170 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 1E8, Canada.
Abstract:
Glioneuronal tumors (GNTs) are an expanding group of primary CNS neoplasms, commonly affecting children, adolescents and young adults. Most GNTs are relatively indolent, low-grade, WHO grade I lesions. In the pediatric age group, GNTs have their epicenter in the cerebral cortex and present with seizures. Alterations in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which regulates cell growth, are implicated in tumorigenesis. Imaging not only plays a key role in the characterization and pre-surgical evaluation of GNTs but is also crucial role in follow-up, especially with the increasing use of targeted inhibitors and immunotherapies. In this chapter, we review the clinical and imaging perspectives of common pediatric GNTs.
Insights
Pediatric glioneuronal tumors (GNTs), often low-grade brain tumors, commonly present with seizures. Advanced imaging is vital for diagnosis, surgical planning, and monitoring treatment response in children and young adults.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Pediatric neurology
- Diagnostic imaging
Background:
- Glioneuronal tumors (GNTs) are a diverse group of primary central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms.
- These tumors predominantly affect pediatric, adolescent, and young adult populations.
- Most GNTs are classified as indolent, low-grade (WHO grade I) lesions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical and imaging characteristics of common pediatric glioneuronal tumors.
- To highlight the role of imaging in the evaluation and management of pediatric GNTs.
- To discuss the implications of targeted therapies and immunotherapies in GNT follow-up.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations and imaging findings of pediatric GNTs.
- Discussion of the role of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in GNT development.
- Analysis of imaging's importance in pre-surgical assessment and post-treatment surveillance.
Main Results:
- Pediatric GNTs typically originate in the cerebral cortex and often manifest as seizures.
- The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is frequently altered in GNTs, influencing cell growth.
- Imaging is essential for characterizing GNTs, guiding surgical interventions, and monitoring treatment efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Glioneuronal tumors represent a significant category of pediatric brain tumors requiring specialized diagnostic approaches.
- Effective utilization of neuroimaging is critical for optimal patient outcomes in pediatric GNTs.
- The evolving landscape of targeted therapies necessitates robust imaging strategies for monitoring treatment response and disease progression.
