Classification of adult-type diffuse gliomas: Impact of the World Health Organization 2021 update

Brain Pathol. 2022 Jul;32(4):e13062. doi: 10.1111/bpa.13062. Epub 2022 Mar 14.

Abstract

Over the last decade, developments in molecular profiling have radically altered the diagnosis, classification, and management of numerous cancer types, with primary brain tumors being no exception. Although historically brain tumors have been classified based on their morphological characteristics, recent advances have allowed refinement of tumor classification based on molecular alterations. This shift toward molecular classification of primary brain tumors is reflected in the 2021 5th edition of the WHO classification of central nervous system tumors (WHO 2021). In this review, we will discuss the most recent updates to the classification of adult-type diffuse gliomas, a group of highly infiltrative and largely incurable CNS malignancies. It is our hope continued that refinement of molecular criteria will improve diagnosis, prognostication, and eventually treatment of these devastating tumors.

Keywords: IDH; astrocytoma; glioblastoma; glioma; oligodendroglioma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Glioma* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Isocitrate Dehydrogenase / genetics
  • Mutation
  • World Health Organization

Substances

  • Isocitrate Dehydrogenase