molecular pathology
Laboratory testing of tumor tissue for genetic and molecular markers that guide diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection in brain tumors.
Full Definition
Molecular pathology in neuro-oncology involves the comprehensive analysis of tumor tissue to identify specific genetic alterations, mutations, and molecular markers that inform diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions. Key testing includes IDH mutation status, 1p/19q codeletion, MGMT promoter methylation, EGFR amplification, and increasingly, next-generation sequencing panels. These molecular markers have become integral to the WHO classification of CNS tumors and are essential for implementing precision medicine approaches. Testing methods include immunohistochemistry, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), PCR-based assays, and comprehensive genomic profiling platforms.
Usage
Usage note: Specify testing methods and markers when documenting results; essential for modern brain tumor diagnosis.
In Context
- "Molecular pathology revealed IDH1 R132H mutation and intact 1p/19q chromosomes." — pathology report
- "The tumor board reviewed molecular pathology results to guide treatment selection." — multidisciplinary conference note