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.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 2047-2054 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Child's Nervous System |
Volume | 35 |
Issue number | 11 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 1 2019 |
Keywords
- Glioma
- Histones
- Molecular
- Oncology
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
- Clinical Neurology