Adult pilocytic astrocytoma in the molecular era: a comprehensive review.

Authors

Timothy A Gregory
Lyndon B Chumbley
John W Henson, Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Seattle, WAFollow
Brett J Theeler

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-15-2021

Publication Title

CNS Oncol

Keywords

washington; seattle; swedish neuro

Abstract

Adult pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is less prevalent than pediatric PA and is associated with a worse prognosis. In a literature review, we found that 88.3% of the molecular alterations in adult PA are associated with MAPK pathway dysregulation. The most common alterations are fusions of BRAF. Understanding of the mechanisms underlying this pathway has evolved substantially, heralding advancements in specific targeted therapy. Here, we review clinical and molecular features of adult PA, characteristics predicting aggressive behavior and approaches to standard and investigational therapies. We highlight epigenetic profiling and integrated diagnosis as an essential component of classifying PA.

Clinical Institute

Cancer

Clinical Institute

Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)

Department

Oncology

Department

Neurosciences

Recommended Citation

Gregory, Timothy A; Chumbley, Lyndon B; Henson, John W; and Theeler, Brett J, "Adult pilocytic astrocytoma in the molecular era: a comprehensive review." (2021). Articles, Abstracts, and Reports. 4282.
https://digitalcommons.providence.org/publications/4282