[Malignant glioma]

Recent advances in molecular genetics have disclosed oncogenes playing a significant role in the development of malignant gliomas. Amplification of the c-erb gene which code EGFR and aberration of P53 oncogene play a significant role in the development of most malignant gliomas. Karyotype analysis of malignant gliomas revealed gains of chromosome 7, loss of chromosome 10, double minutes and loss of heterozygosity. The development of the tumors appear to result from the accumulation of those multiple genetic alterations. Although many cases of familiar malignant gliomas have been reported the role of hereditary factors in familial transmission still remains controversial. Chromosomal abnormalities seemed to be confined to the tumor cell, and no alteration in karyotype of peripheral blood, which indicated germ line mutation, was demonstrated. However, several authors indicated that the frequency of malignant gliomas in the relatives of patients was estimated more than ten times to the controls. Some hereditary factors might play a role in malignant gliomas.