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Child's Nervous System

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01-10-2009 | Invited Paper

Classification and controversies in pathology of ependymomas

Author: Catherine Godfraind

Published in: Child's Nervous System | Issue 10/2009

Abstract

Purpose

Bailey and Cushing established ependymoma as a brain tumour entity in the first brain tumour classification (1926). Diagnosis of ependymomas is not subject to controversy as long as other tumours presenting ependymoma-like features have been ruled out. Grading conversely is a source of debate. Description of histological features establishing diagnosis and grading of ependymomas may help to better understand this controversy.

Methods

Literature has been reviewed using PubMed with the following key words: ependymoma, +/− prognosis, +/− biomaker, +/− grading, +/− immunohistochemistry, +/− proliferative index.

Results

Grading controversy arises from elusive WHO features and individual characteristics of ependymomas including tumour location, tumour pattern/variant and variable expression of biomarkers.

Conclusion

There is a need for a grading scheme with a proven general ability to dissociate grades, and to predict individual clinical evolution. Only then will stratified and targeted therapeutics for ependymal tumours be possible.

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Title: Classification and controversies in pathology of ependymomas
Author: Catherine Godfraind
Publication date: 01-10-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Child's Nervous System / Issue 10/2009
Print ISSN: 0256-7040
Electronic ISSN: 1433-0350
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-008-0804-4

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Classification and controversies in pathology of ependymomas

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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