Pathology of Central Nervous System - Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the pathology of CNS tumours, including statistics, characteristics, symptoms, grading systems, and specific tumour types.

What percentage of CNS tumours are primary tumours?

50-75% of CNS tumours are primary tumours.

Where do childhood CNS tumours typically arise?

In the posterior fossa.

How do childhood CNS tumours differ from adult CNS tumours?

They differ in histological subtype and location.

What is a unique characteristic of CNS tumours?

They do not have premalignant stages or carcinoma in situ.

What can even low-grade CNS neoplasms cause?

Serious clinical deficits and poor prognosis.

What may anatomical location of CNS tumours lead to?

Serious consequences independently of the histological type.

What are common symptoms associated with increased intracranial pressure?

Headaches, vomiting, altered state of consciousness, and anisocoria.

What does the presence of papilledema indicate?

It indicates the displacement of the retina and can cause blurred vision.

What is herniation in relation to CNS tumours?

It is the displacement of parts of the brain, leading potentially to lethal brainstem compression.

What are the three main categories of symptoms of CNS tumours?

Consequences of intracranial hypertension, dysfunction, and irritation.

What might focal neurologic symptoms indicate in CNS tumours?

They may indicate damage to surrounding brain structures and may not be specific to brain tumours.

What is the typical presentation of diffuse astrocytomas?

Seizures, headaches, focal neurologic deficits.

What are the four grades of CNS tumours according to the WHO classification?

Grade I: benign, Grade II: slow-growing but can recur, Grade III: malignant with recurrence, Grade IV: aggressive malignant.

What characterizes pilocytic astrocytoma?

It is a relatively benign tumour that typically affects children and young adults.

Which genetic mutations are associated with pilocytic astrocytomas?

Activating mutations in the BRAF gene.

What are astrocytomas?

Astrocytomas are tumors that arise from astrocytes, the star-shaped glial cells in the brain.

What factors influence the prognosis of astrocytomas?

Factors include the tumor's grade, location, and genetic markers.

What is the grade classification for astrocytomas?

Astrocytomas can be classified into grades I-IV based on aggressiveness, with Grade I being benign and Grade IV being the most aggressive.

What are common signs and symptoms of astrocytomas?

Symptoms may include seizures, headaches, cognitive changes, and focal neurological deficits.

What is the most common type of astrocytoma?

The most common type is Grade II diffuse astrocytoma.

How are astrocytomas usually diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like MRI and tissue biopsy for histological examination.

What is a key treatment option for astrocytomas?

Surgical resection is often the first line of treatment for resectable tumors.

What are newer therapeutic approaches for treating high-grade astrocytomas?

They include targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials for experimental drugs.

What is the role of radiation therapy in astrocytoma management?

Radiation therapy is commonly used post-surgery for higher-grade astrocytomas to control tumor growth.