[Glial histoenzymatic study in human cerebral edema (collateral edema in glial tumors)]

Histoenzymatic study was performed on neurosurgical specimens. Two patterns of reactive astrocytes were found. Normal shape cells with perivascular processes were observed in subcortical white matter and in moderate edematous changes. Hypertrophic cells without processes were seen in severe edematous changes. The role of glia in the selective vulnerability of the white matter is discussed.