Glioma Diagnosis 2021: Something old, Something new - Anticipating the new WHO-Recorded Webinar

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Cresak provided an in-depth presentation on the evolving classification and diagnosis of gliomas in alignment with the upcoming World Health Organization (WHO) updates. Her lecture emphasized the inclusion of molecular testing in glioma classification, particularly focusing on IDH mutations versus wild types. She detailed the historical context of glioma classification starting from the 1920s, transitioning through various WHO updates, and the impact of the C-ImpACT papers which guide these updates between WHO classifications.<br /><br />Key highlights included the distinction between infiltrating astrocytomas based on IDH mutation status and the new terminologies for gliomas. For IDH wild type gliomas, specific molecular markers such as TERT promoter mutations, EGFR amplification, or chromosomal alterations now classify these as glioblastomas (GBM) regardless of histology, marking a significant shift from previous histology-based classifications. Additionally, she underlined the relevance of CDKN2A deletions in grading IDH mutant astrocytomas.<br /><br />Dr. Cresak also introduced the classification changes for pediatric gliomas, emphasizing distinct molecular characteristics and the importance of differentiating these from adult gliomas. She covered updates in other tumor types, like ependymomas and oligodendrogliomas, and stressed the importance of molecular testing despite potential limitations in non-specialized facilities.<br /><br />In conclusion, while molecular insights into gliomas have significantly advanced diagnosis, therapeutic progress remains limited. Dr. Cresak highlighted ongoing efforts in vaccine trials and targeted therapies, acknowledging their potential yet non-durable benefits. She ended by reaffirming the central role of molecular profiling in the future of glioma treatment and diagnosis.

Keywords

glioma classification

IDH mutations

molecular testing

WHO updates

astrocytomas

glioblastomas

pediatric gliomas

C-ImpACT papers

molecular profiling

targeted therapies