[Latest Classification and Management of Circumscribed Astrocytic Gliomas]

The 2021 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of the central nervous system (CNS5) marks a major shift toward molecularly integrated diagnostics, distinguishing circumscribed astrocytic gliomas and glioneuronal tumors from diffuse gliomas based on characteristic genomic and epigenetic signatures. These tumors are predominantly driven by MAPK pathway alterations, including BRAF fusions and BRAF V600E mutation, whereas others harbor mTOR pathway activation or distinct drivers, such as PRKCA and MN1. Advances in precision oncology have transformed clinical management, and targeted therapies, such as dabrafenib/trametinib and everolimus, have been established; selumetinib received expanded adult approval in Japan in 2025. Moreover, next-generation type II RAF inhibitors, exemplified by tovorafenib, and emerging combinatorial approaches targeting pathway crosstalk offer promising strategies to overcome therapeutic resistance. This review synthesizes current molecular definitions and evolving personalized treatment paradigms for circumscribed gliomas. Integrating these molecular insights into routine practice is essential for optimizing tumor control and preserving neurological function in the CNS5 era.