Gliomatosis cerebri: growing evidence for diffuse gliomas with wide invasion

Abstract

Recent evidence suggests that there are no features that sufficiently distinguish gliomatosis cerebri (GC) from diffuse gliomas. They show the same age and sex distribution, clinical signs, prognostic factors and harbor similar genetic abnormalities. Furthermore, GC can progress secondarily to a higher grade of malignancy. The 2007 WHO classification itemizes GC among astrocytic tumors. Nevertheless, an oligodendroglial differentiation can be observed in up to 40%. These data implicate that treatment guidelines might follow those for diffuse gliomas in general. However, the large extension usually limits surgery to biopsies. The role of whole brain radiotherapy is unclear because no impact on survival could be demonstrated. At least some patients might benefit from chemotherapy (temozolomide).

Keywords::

• astrocytoma progression
• clonality
• diffuse glioma
• gliomatosis cerebri
• laterality
• oligodendroglioma
• prognostic factor
• tumor classification
• tumor infiltration

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.