peritumoral region
Pronunciation: pair-ih-TOO-mor-al
The brain tissue immediately surrounding a tumor, which may contain infiltrating tumor cells and treatment effects.
Full Definition
The peritumoral region refers to the brain parenchyma immediately adjacent to a visible tumor mass, extending several centimeters beyond the enhancing tumor margin. This region is of critical importance in neurosurgical oncology as it may harbor infiltrating tumor cells, particularly in malignant gliomas, and can demonstrate treatment-related changes such as radiation necrosis or chemotherapy effects. Understanding the peritumoral region is essential for surgical planning, radiation treatment field design, and interpreting imaging changes during follow-up. The region often appears normal on conventional imaging but may show abnormalities on advanced imaging techniques.
Usage
Usage note: Broader than 'tumor margin' which refers to the visible edge; includes tissue that may appear normal but harbor tumor cells.
In Context
- "Biopsy of the peritumoral region revealed infiltrating tumor cells beyond the enhancing margin." — Pathology report
- "Radiation therapy fields included a margin to cover potential microscopic extension in the peritumoral region." — Radiation planning note