angiocentric glioma
A rare WHO grade I cortical tumor characterized by glial cells arranged around blood vessels.
Full Definition
Angiocentric glioma is a rare WHO grade I cortical tumor that predominantly affects children and young adults, typically presenting with medically refractory epilepsy. The tumor is characterized by bipolar glial cells with elongated processes arranged in a distinctive radial orientation around blood vessels, creating an angiocentric pattern. The tumor cells show features intermediate between astrocytes and ependymal cells, with some cases showing dot-like EMA positivity. Angiocentric gliomas are typically cortically based, well-circumscribed, and show a characteristic MRI appearance with a 'stalk-like' extension toward the ventricle. Complete surgical resection is usually curative, and malignant transformation has not been reported.
Usage
Usage note: Emphasize angiocentric arrangement as defining feature.
In Context
- "The epilepsy surgery revealed angiocentric glioma with characteristic perivascular cell arrangement." — Pediatric neurosurgery report
- "Angiocentric glioma showed the typical radial orientation of glial cells around vessels." — Neuropathology consultation