Description
Glial tumors are one of the most common surgical Neuropathology cases and frequently represent a diagnostic challenge. Similar to many other tumor types, both the diagnostic tests and pathologic classifications are evolving. The current approach to diagnosis of low and high grade gliomas, i.e., H&E morphology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular testing, will be reviewed. Similarities to and differences from diagnostic approaches to non-nervous system tumors will be discussed.
Objectives
- Chart the evolution of glioma diagnosis from a morphologic to a combined morphologic / molecular approach.
- Describe the genetic abnormalities of the most common glioma subtypes (astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and glioblastomas).
- Discuss the role of genetic tests in the diagnosis of gliomas.
- Review the use of molecular tests for prognosis and prediction of response to therapy.
