Low-grade gliomas and leptomeningeal dissemination: a poorly understood phenomenon

摘要: The leptomeningeal dissemination (LMD) of low-grade gliomas (LGGs) is reported in clinical neuro-oncology practice more and frequently. It estimated that 5% all childhood LGGs present LMD at diagnosis 7–10% the time progression. has been association with almost known subtypes LGGs. Furthermore, "unusual " can be encountered among slow-growing brain neoplasm capable LMD, which cannot comfortably included WHO tumour classification. biological, genetic characteristics seem to favour are far from being understood. Similarly, profile those children disseminated not yet firmly established. Young, non-neurofibromatosis type 1 boys large hypothalamic-chiasmatic pilocytic astrocytomas increased risk LMD. neuroradiological appearance similar observed malignant tumours, except for cases characterised by multiple superficial non-enhancing cystic lesions, exclusively associated a fully identified stem or spinal tumour. No firm guidelines treatment these diseases available, mostly due rarity this condition existing uncertainties regarding their natural history. evidence does have negative impact on patients' long-term outcome.