oligodendroglioma
Pronunciation: oh-li-goh-den-droh-glee-OH-mah
A brain tumor arising from oligodendrocytes, often characterized by specific genetic mutations and better prognosis than astrocytomas.
Full Definition
Oligodendroglioma is a type of glioma that originates from oligodendrocytes, the cells responsible for producing myelin in the central nervous system. These tumors are characterized by distinctive 'fried egg' cellular morphology and often contain calcifications visible on imaging. Most oligodendrogliomas harbor characteristic genetic alterations including 1p/19q codeletion and IDH mutations, which are associated with better response to chemotherapy and improved survival compared to astrocytomas. Modern neuropathological diagnosis requires both histological and molecular characterization to accurately classify these tumors according to WHO criteria.
Usage
Usage note: Emphasize molecular features in modern diagnostic context; distinguish from morphological mimics.
In Context
- "Molecular testing confirmed oligodendroglioma with 1p/19q codeletion and IDH1 mutation." — Integrated diagnosis report
- "The tumor showed classic oligodendroglioma morphology with perinuclear halos." — Histopathological description