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Published in: Child's Nervous System 11/2019

01-11-2019 | Astrocytoma | Case-Based Update

The molecular oncology of bilateral high-grade thalamic astrocytomas in children

Authors: Amir Goodarzi, Nicholas Garza, Mirna Lechpammer, Reuben Anthony, Marike Zwienenberg

Published in: Child's Nervous System | Issue 11/2019

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Abstract

Background

Bilateral thalamic astrocytomas in children are exceedingly rare. These highly malignant tumors seldom respond to conventional treatment strategies and carry a grim prognosis for patients. However, recent advances in molecular oncology have had a positive impact on prognostication and treatment strategies of these tumors.

Case-based review

We present a new case of WHO grade III bilateral thalamic astrocytoma in a child and review the pathophysiology, molecular oncogenesis, and relevant treatment strategies for this rare disease.

Conclusions

High-grade thalamic astrocytomas affecting both thalami pose a challenge to pediatric neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, and neuropathologists given the lack of effective treatment strategies. Understanding recent revelations in the field of molecular oncology can assist clinicians in adequately formulating a treatment plan in this patient population.
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Metadata
Title
The molecular oncology of bilateral high-grade thalamic astrocytomas in children
Authors
Amir Goodarzi
Nicholas Garza
Mirna Lechpammer
Reuben Anthony
Marike Zwienenberg
Publication date
01-11-2019
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
Child's Nervous System / Issue 11/2019
Print ISSN: 0256-7040
Electronic ISSN: 1433-0350
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-019-04372-0

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