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Technical
IVT
astrocytoma
A primary brain tumor arising from astrocytes, ranging from low-grade to high-grade malignant forms including glioblastoma.
Full Definition
Astrocytomas represent the most common primary brain tumors, classified by WHO grading from I to IV based on histological features including cellularity, mitotic activity, microvascular proliferation, and necrosis. Low-grade astrocytomas (Grade I-II) grow slowly and may be curable with complete resection, while high-grade forms (Grade III-IV) are aggressive with poor prognosis. Molecular markers like IDH mutations and 1p/19q codeletion now guide classification and treatment decisions alongside traditional histology.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify WHO grade and molecular features when available for accurate classification.
In Context
- "The Grade II astrocytoma was managed with gross total resection and surveillance imaging." — Neuro-oncology treatment plan
- "IDH-wildtype astrocytoma in adults carries a significantly worse prognosis than IDH-mutant tumors." — Molecular pathology report
Also known as
astrocytic glioma
astrocytic tumor
Contrasted with
healthy brain tissue
non-neoplastic lesion
Don't confuse with
oligodendroglioma
ependymoma
meningioma