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Gangliogliomas in adults
R Hakim1, J S Loeffler, D C Anthony
1Department of Neurosurgical Service, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Cancer
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Gangliogliomas, rare tumors with neuronal and glial cells, show a favorable prognosis in adults. However, anaplastic features in ganglioglioma cases predict a worse outcome, highlighting the importance of pathological assessment.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Pathology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Gangliogliomas are uncommon tumors comprising neoplastic neurons and glia.
- These tumors affect both pediatric and adult populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of intracranial gangliogliomas in adult patients.
- To identify prognostic factors influencing patient survival.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 18 adult patients with intracranial gangliogliomas.
- Data collected between October 1987 and November 1995.
- Analysis of clinical manifestations, tumor location, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes.
Main Results:
- The median age at diagnosis was 33.7 years.
- Common clinical manifestation was seizures (13 patients).
- Temporal lobe was the most frequent tumor location (6 patients).
- Median survival was 90.3 months; however, 3 patients with anaplastic features experienced significantly shorter survival.
Conclusions:
- Adult gangliogliomas generally have a favorable prognosis.
- The presence of anaplastic features is a significant predictor of poor outcome in ganglioglioma patients.