Cerebral astroblastoma

Abstract

Background: Astroblastoma is a rare glial tumour about which little is known.

Method: We report a case of cerebral high grade astroblastoma and discuss the clinical, histopathological, surgical, radiological and prognostic features of this tumour, in the light of the pertinent literature.

Result: Present patient had an initial histological diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme. Three years later an histological reevaluation was performed and revealed a high grade astroblastoma. Our patient underwent surgical removal and radiotherapy; five years after the operation he is alive and without evidence of recurrence.

Interpretation: Classification and histogenesis of this tumour is still debated. The lack of a clinicopathological correlation makes the prognosis of this tumour unpredictable. The optimal management is not defined, but total resection and post-operative radiotherapy seem to be the effective means to treat the astroblastoma.