Precision Medicine for Primary Central Nervous System Tumors: Are We There Yet?

Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book. 2018 May 23:38:158-167. doi: 10.1200/EDBK_199247.

Abstract

In recent years, technologic advances have increased tremendously our understanding of the molecular characteristics and genetic drivers of a variety of brain tumors. These discoveries have led to paradigm shifts in the treatment of these tumor entities and may therefore have a considerable impact on the outcome of affected patients in the near future. Here, we provide a broad overview of recently discovered clinically actionable mutations that have been identified in three different primary brain tumors: gliomas, meningiomas, and craniopharyngiomas. We furthermore highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of these findings and summarize recently published and ongoing trials.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / etiology
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Humans
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasm Grading
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Precision Medicine* / methods
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor