[An unusual and misleading form of pilocytic astrocytoma]

Ann Pathol. 2006 Apr;26(2):126-8. doi: 10.1016/s0242-6498(06)70692-7.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Pilocytic astrocytoma is histologically characterized by a biphasic pattern. We report a myxoid form of frontocallosal pilocytic astrocytoma in a 13-year-old girl. MRI showed a relatively well-defined tumor with necrosis and ring-like zone of contrast enhancement. Histological examination showed a monophasic tumor composed of piloid cells on a myxoid background corresponding to a pilomyxoid astrocytoma. This unusual form of pilocytic astrocytoma can be mistaken for a high grade infiltrating glioma. Pilomyxoid astrocytoma is more aggressive than classic pilocytic astrocytoma and has to be distinguished from it.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Astrocytoma / pathology*
  • Astrocytoma / surgery
  • Biomarkers
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein / analysis
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein