oligodendroglioma
Pronunciation: oh-li-go-den-dro-gly-OH-ma
A type of brain tumor arising from oligodendrocytes, characterized by fried-egg appearance on histology and often carrying 1p/19q codeletion.
Full Definition
Oligodendroglioma is a type of primary brain tumor that develops from oligodendrocytes, the cells that produce myelin in the central nervous system. These tumors are characterized by their distinctive 'fried-egg' appearance under microscopic examination and frequently harbor 1p/19q chromosomal codeletion, which is both a diagnostic marker and predictor of treatment response. Oligodendrogliomas typically occur in the frontal lobes and are generally more responsive to chemotherapy than other gliomas. The WHO classification distinguishes between grade II and grade III (anaplastic) oligodendrogliomas based on histological features including mitotic activity and cellular atypia.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify grade (II or III) when mentioned in clinical contexts.
In Context
- "The patient's biopsy confirmed a grade II oligodendroglioma with 1p/19q codeletion." — pathology report
- "PCV chemotherapy remains the standard treatment for anaplastic oligodendrogliomas." — treatment protocol