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Child's Nervous System

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01-06-2003 | Case-based Update

Pilocytic astrocytomas with leptomeningeal dissemination: biological behavior, clinical course, and therapeutical options

Authors: Ute Buschmann, Bettina Gers, Gerhard Hildebrandt

Published in: Child's Nervous System | Issue 5-6/2003

Abstract

Background

The aim of this case-based update is to discuss the biological characteristics, clinical course, and optimal treatment of pediatric patients harboring pilocytic astrocytomas (PA) with leptomeningeal dissemination (LMD). PAs are well-recognized benign pediatric tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). Despite a favorable outcome in general, in rare cases LMD might occur and contribute to poor clinical course. Localization of the PA in the chiasmo-hypothalamic region seems especially predisposed to LMD. In addition, specific histological features might constitute the potential for subarachnoid metastases. The optimal treatment is still under discussion but studies suggest that chemotherapeutical treatment should be used as first choice therapy in order to avoid or delay radiotherapy.

Case reports and discussion

Two cases of subtotally resected chiasmo-hypothalamic PAs with synchronous LMD but with different rates of progression are described. The literature is reviewed and compared with our findings.

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Title: Pilocytic astrocytomas with leptomeningeal dissemination: biological behavior, clinical course, and therapeutical options
Authors: Ute Buschmann
Bettina Gers
Gerhard Hildebrandt
Publication date: 01-06-2003
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Child's Nervous System / Issue 5-6/2003
Print ISSN: 0256-7040
Electronic ISSN: 1433-0350
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-003-0746-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Pilocytic astrocytomas with leptomeningeal dissemination: biological behavior, clinical course, and therapeutical options

Abstract

Background

Case reports and discussion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case reports and discussion

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