Diagnosis and management of astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas and mixed gliomas: a review.
Low-grade gliomas are a diverse group of neoplasms which, as the name implies, are thought to arise from glial cells. Common among this group are astrocytomas (low-grade astrocytoma; LGA), oligodendrogliomas and mixed gliomas. Among these, LGA is the commonest low-grade glioma and, occasionally, although incorrectly, the terms are used interchangeably. Advances in imaging technology have improved the accuracy of preoperative diagnosis. The management of low-grade gliomas is controversial. Recent evidence suggests that previously considered standard therapy (i.e. surgery plus radiotherapy) may not be in the patient's best interests. A review of the available published research concerning low-grade gliomas is therefore timely.
Walker
D G
DG
Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia. dividgwalker@oxemail.com.au
Kaye
A H
AH
D001254:Astrocytoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D018450:Disease Progression; D005910:Glioma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D009837:Oligodendroglioma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D011379:Prognosis; D013687:Telencephalon / Q000473:pathology*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed