Pilomyxoid astrocytoma: a review.

Ricardo J. Komotar, J. Mocco, Benjamin S. Carson, Michael E. Sughrue, Brad E. Zacharia, Alexander C. Sisti, Peter D. Canoll, Alexander G. Khandji, Tarik Tihan, Peter C. Burger, Jeffery N. Bruce

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

61 Scopus citations

Abstract

Pilomyxoid astrocytoma (PMA) is a recently described type of brain tumor. PMA shares similar features with pilocytic astrocytoma (PA), the most common central nervous system (CNS) tumor in the pediatric population, yet displays subtle histologic differences. Previous studies have shown PMA to behave more aggressively than PA, with shorter progression-free and overall survival as well as a higher rate of recurrence and CNS dissemination. These findings suggest that PMA may be a unique and distinct neoplasm. This review summarizes the histologic, clinical, and radiographic characteristics of PMA. In addition, the current treatment options and research endeavors involving this disease are described. Increased recognition of PMA within the medical community has the potential to affect the treatment and prognosis of pediatric low-grade astrocytomas.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)42
Number of pages1
JournalMedGenMed Medscape General Medicine
Volume6
Issue number4
StatePublished - 2004
Externally publishedYes

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