Pediatric hemispheric high-grade glioma: targeting the future

Cancer Metastasis Rev. 2020 Mar;39(1):245-260. doi: 10.1007/s10555-020-09850-5.

Abstract

Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs) are a group of tumors affecting approximately 0.85 children per 100,000 annually. The general outcome for these tumors is poor with 5-year survival rates of less than 20%. It is now recognized that these tumors represent a heterogeneous group of tumors rather than one entity. Large-scale genomic analyses have led to a greater understanding of the molecular drivers of different subtypes of these tumors and have also aided in the development of subtype-specific therapies. For example, for pHGG with NTRK fusions, promising new targeted therapies are actively being explored. Herein, we review the clinico-pathologic and molecular classification of these tumors, historical treatments, current management strategies, and therapies currently under investigation.

Keywords: Glioblastoma; Molecular classification; Pediatric hemispheric high-grade glioma; Targeted therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology
  • Brain Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Child
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Glioma / genetics*
  • Glioma / pathology
  • Glioma / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Grading