Angiocentric glioma

A rare type of brain tumor

Angiocentric glioma is a rare type of brain tumor that primarily affects children and young adults. It is classified as a low-grade glioma, which means it is generally slow-growing and less aggressive compared to other types of brain tumors. Angiocentric gliomas are characterized by their unique histological appearance, with tumor cells arranged around blood vessels.

Pathophysiology

Angiocentric gliomas are thought to originate from glial cells, which are supportive cells in the central nervous system. The tumor is named for its distinctive pattern of growth, where the tumor cells form concentric rings around blood vessels, a feature that can be observed under a microscope.

Neuropathological examination of angiocentric glioma

The exact cause of angiocentric glioma is not well understood, but like many brain tumors, it may involve genetic mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth. These tumors are typically located in the cerebral cortex, often in the temporal lobe, which can influence the symptoms experienced by the patient.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with angiocentric glioma often present with seizures, which are the most common symptom. Other symptoms may include headaches, nausea, and neurological deficits depending on the tumor's location and size.

MRI of a 4-year-old boy with angiocentric glioma

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of angiocentric glioma is typically made through a combination of neuroimaging and histopathological examination. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred imaging modality, as it provides detailed images of the brain and can help identify the tumor's location and characteristics.

MRI machine used for brain imaging

A definitive diagnosis is made through a biopsy, where a sample of the tumor is examined under a microscope. The presence of tumor cells arranged around blood vessels is a key diagnostic feature.

Treatment

The primary treatment for angiocentric glioma is surgical resection. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving neurological function. Due to the tumor's low-grade nature, complete surgical removal often results in a favorable prognosis.

In some cases, additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be considered, especially if the tumor cannot be completely resected or if it recurs.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with angiocentric glioma is generally good, especially when the tumor is completely resected. The low-grade nature of the tumor means that it is less likely to spread or become aggressive. However, regular follow-up with neuroimaging is recommended to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

Related pages

• Glioma
• Brain tumor
• Seizure
• Neuroimaging

Histological image of angiocentric glioma