Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
astrocytoma
Pronunciation: as-tro-sy-TOH-mah
A type of brain tumor arising from astrocytes, classified by grade and commonly referenced in pathology reports.
Full Definition
Astrocytoma is a primary brain tumor that develops from astrocytes, star-shaped cells that support nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These tumors are classified into grades I-IV based on their aggressiveness, with glioblastoma (grade IV) being the most malignant form. Editors working with neuropathology reports must understand the grading system and associated terminology to accurately edit diagnostic findings and treatment recommendations.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify grade when mentioned; avoid confusion with other glial tumors.
In Context
- "The pathology report confirmed a grade II astrocytoma with infiltrative growth pattern." — Diagnostic pathology report
- "Immunohistochemical staining was consistent with pilocytic astrocytoma." — Histopathology findings
Also known as
astrocytic tumor
astrocytic glioma
Don't confuse with
oligodendroglioma
ependymoma