Incidental diffuse low-grade gliomas: from early detection to preventive neuro-oncological surgery

Neurosurg Rev. 2016 Jul;39(3):377-84. doi: 10.1007/s10143-015-0675-6. Epub 2015 Nov 27.

Abstract

Although a large amount of data supports early surgical resection for symptomatic diffuse low-grade glioma, the therapeutic strategy is still a matter of debate regarding incidentally discovered diffuse low-grade glioma. Indeed, early and "preventive" surgery has recently been proposed in asymptomatic patients with silent diffuse low-grade glioma with better outcomes. The present review discusses the importance of an early diagnosis and of a preventive surgical treatment to improve the outcomes of incidental diffuse low-grade glioma and suggests the possible relevance of a tailored screening policy.

Keywords: Diffuse low-grade glioma; Incidental discovery; Outcomes; Preventive surgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Brain Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Early Diagnosis*
  • Glioma / diagnosis*
  • Glioma / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Grading
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods
  • Treatment Outcome