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

Publication

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

Journal Paper/Review - May 22, 2003

Buschmann Ute, Gers Bettina, Hildebrandt Gerhard

Citation

Buschmann U, Gers B, Hildebrandt G. Pilocytic astrocytomas with leptomeningeal dissemination: biological behavior, clinical course, and therapeutical options. Childs Nerv Syst 2003; 19:298-304.

Type

Journal Paper/Review (English)

Journal

Childs Nerv Syst 2003; 19

Publication Date

May 22, 2003

Issn Print

0256-7040

Pages

298-304

Brief description/objective

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.