Radiotherapy for central neurocytoma: A multicentric retrospective study in France

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Oncology
• Neuropathology

Background:

• Central neurocytomas are rare primary brain tumors with neuronal differentiation, predominantly affecting young adults.
• Neurosurgery is the primary treatment, but the role of radiotherapy remains uncertain.
• Understanding prognostic factors and treatment efficacy is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the management strategies for central neurocytomas.
• To determine the specific role and efficacy of radiotherapy in managing these tumors.
• To identify factors influencing local control and overall survival.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of adult patients (≥18 years) newly diagnosed with central neurocytoma between 2006 and 2015 in France.
• Inclusion of histologically confirmed cases.
• Assessment of surgical resection extent, adjuvant radiotherapy use, and follow-up data.

Main Results:

• 116 patients were included; all underwent surgical resection.
• Local failure occurred in 29 patients, with a 5-year local control rate of 73.4%.
• Subtotal resection and a Ki67 index >2% were associated with increased local failure risk. Gross total resection correlated with higher risks of epilepsy and memory disorders.

Conclusions:

• Subtotal resection, particularly for tumors with a Ki67 index >2%, significantly increases the risk of local recurrence.
• Adjuvant radiotherapy may be beneficial for patients with high-risk factors.
• Further research is needed to refine treatment protocols for central neurocytomas.