Histological and Molecular Classification of Glioma: Changing Expectations

Ayça ERŞEN DANYELİa

aAcıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, İstanbul, Türkiye

Erşen Danyeli A. Histological and molecular clas- sification of glioma: Changing expectations. In: Uğur HÇ, Bayatlı E, eds. Glial Tumours: Expecta- tions from Today-Promises of the Future. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2024. p.6-9.

ABSTRACT

Gliomas are the most common tumors originating from the central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma and are classified into diffuse gliomas and well-circumscribed astrocytic gliomas. The classification of gliomas was first conducted by Harvey Cushing and Percival Bailey in 1926, and since 1979, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) classification has been the most widely accepted. The WHO classification updated in 2016 included molecular changes in the definition of diffuse gliomas, introducing the concept of ”morphomolecular integrated diagnosis”. In the 5th edition in 2021, molecular features became essential diagnostic criteria. The 2021 WHO classification divides diffuse gliomas into two main categories: adult type and pediatric type. Each tumor type is graded within itself, and molecular markers are included in the diagnosis. Molecular analysis methods used in the diagnosis of gliomas include DNA methylation profiling and next-generation sequencing (NGS). DNA methylation profiling provides diagnostic and prognostic information by reflecting the epigenetic characteristics of tumors. NGS methods detect genetic changes through DNA and RNA sequencing. Molecular markers play a significant role in the diagnosis and treatment of gliomas, providing more accurate and reliable diagnoses through an integrated diagnostic approach. These advancements allow for better prognosis determination and more standardized treatment planning in the clinical management of gliomas.

Keywords: Glioma; molecular sequence data; methylation

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