Insight about the characteristics and surgical resectability of adult pilocytic astrocytoma: tertiary center experience

Abstract

Aim: Adult pilocytic astrocytoma is a rare tumor. We aim to contribute to understanding its clinical course and prognosis. Patients & methods: We searched our database for patients older than 18 years with pathology-proven pilocytic astrocytoma. Patients’ clinical data were analyzed. Results: Fifteen patients were identified. The median age at diagnosis was 25 years (range: 18–56). Tumors were supratentorial in 47%. Gross-total and near-total resections were achieved in 40%, and sub-total resection in 47%. One (7%) recurrence and no mortality were encountered during a median follow-up of 11 months (range: 1–76). Conclusion: Pilocytic astrocytoma behaves differently in adults compared with pediatrics. It tends to arise in surgically challenging areas where the extent of resection may be limited. Total resection should be the main therapy whenever feasible. The survival rates are good, and recurrence is low.

Stellera chamaejasme L. extracts in the treatment of glioblastoma cell lines: Biological verification based on a network pharmacology approach

“…Due to their high heterogeneity and invasiveness, malignant cells in GBM are difficult to remove completely ( 5 ). In contrast, residual tumor cells present with stem cell characteristics with a potential self-updated ability ( 6 ), further leading to the establishment of resistance against chemotherapy and radiotherapy ( 7 ), thereby resulting in the recurrence of such tumors and the establishment of a refractory disease ( 8 ). As a result, GBM treatment is rarely beneficial when using existing treatment methods ( 9 ).…”