Extra-CNS metastasis from glioblastoma: a rare clinical entity

Abstract

Extra-CNS metastasis from glioblastoma (ECMGBM) is an emerging but little known clinical entity. We review pre-clinical and translational publications assessing the ability of GBM to spread locally and outside the CNS. Reported cases demonstrating ECMGBM are reviewed providing a summary of presentations for the entity. Special attention is placed on transmission of GBM through organ transplantation. Finally, predictions are made as to the future significance of ECMGBM, especially in the context of better outcomes in CNS GBM.

Keywords:

• circulating tumor cells
• glioblastoma
• gliomas
• malignancy in transplant patients
• organ transplantation

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Key issues

• Glioblastoma (GBM) cells rapidly spread through the CNS.

• Extra-CNS GBM is a rare but under-recognized clinical entity.

• Sites of metastasis for primary extra-CNS GBM have included the lung, lymph nodes, liver, pancreas, small bowel, parotid gland, and many other organs.

• It is controversial as to whether patients with prior craniotomy may be at higher risk for extra-CNS GBM.

• Circulating tumor cells have been found in the peripheral blood of individuals with GBM.

• Organ recipients have contracted extra-CNS GBM from their organ donors.

• Organ donation should be limited to patients without a history of high-grade CNS tumors like GBM.