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Ependymomas in children: histologic and DNA-flow cytometric study
M Reyes-Mugica1, P M Chou, M M Myint
1Department of Pathology, Children's Memorial Hosptial, Chicago, Illinois 60614.
Pediatric Pathology
|May 1, 1994
Summary
This study investigated DNA flow cytometry for predicting pediatric ependymoma outcomes. Findings suggest DNA index and histology are not reliable prognostic markers for these central nervous system tumors.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular Pathology
Background:
- Ependymomas are common pediatric central nervous system neoplasms with variable morphology.
- Previous studies show controversial correlations between ependymoma histology and clinical behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the prognostic value of DNA flow cytometry in pediatric ependymomas.
- To assess the correlation between DNA index, histological features, and clinical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 22 pediatric ependymoma cases from two institutions.
- DNA flow cytometry performed on paraffin-embedded tumor tissues.
- Review of histological features including necrosis, mitoses, endothelial proliferation, cellularity, and pleomorphism.
Main Results:
- 17 tumors analyzed showed a near-even split between DNA indexes below (53%) and above (47%) 1.16.
- A significant proportion of patients (59%) died during the follow-up period.
- No statistically significant correlation was found between DNA index, histological features, and patient outcome.
Conclusions:
- DNA flow cytometry and traditional histological markers may not reliably predict the clinical course of pediatric ependymomas.
- Ependymomas exhibit high morphological variability and potential aggressiveness, necessitating further research for prognostic indicators.