Glioblastoma Multiforme

Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Abstract Introduction Clinical Presentation Historical Perspective

Etiology and Genetics Pathologic Characteristics Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Therapy and Prognosis Conclusions Source Information References

Conclusions

GBM is a ubiquitous neoplasm that can affect any part of the central nervous system and has a wide variety of clinical symptoms and radiologic appearances. Usually, the diagnosis, both radiologic and pathologic, is straightforward and is made on the basis of key features of necrosis, hypervascularity, and hemorrhage. The pathologic examination of these tumors reveals several distinct variations, and it is possible that future pathologic investigations will demonstrate that these variations are in fact separate entities that enter into a final common pathway for highly malignant brain neoplasms. For the present, the great similarity in the biologic behavior of these tumors renders any distinctions between them relatively unimportant.

Major advances in the study of human genetics have contributed greatly to our current understanding of GBM and also to our increasing understanding of the normal genetic mechanisms for control of cellular growth and differentiation. The intense study of the pathologic aberrations of gene function carries with it the need to better understand normal genetic control, and our knowledge in both areas continues to expand rapidly. As the myriad of genetic defects that are found in these tumors is delineated, the exact nature of their specific contributions to the relentless, destructive nature of GBM will become clarified and lead to more specific modes of therapy. These exciting advances may yet alter the grim prognosis of these fatal brain neoplasms.

Abstract Introduction Clinical Presentation Historical Perspective

Etiology and Genetics Pathologic Characteristics Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Therapy and Prognosis Conclusions Source Information References