Fetal intraventricular glioblastoma: ultrasonographic, magnetic resonance imaging, and pathologic findings

Management and Molecular Characterization of Intraventricular Glioblastoma: A Single-Institution Case Series

While the central nervous system (CNS) tumor classification has increasingly incorporated molecular parameters, there is a paucity of literature reporting molecular alterations found in intraventricular glioblastoma (IVGBM), which are rare. We present a case series of nine IVGBMs, including molecular alterations found in standardized next-generation sequencing (NGS). We queried the clinical charts, operative notes, pathology reports, and radiographic images of nine patients with histologically confirmed IVGBM treated at our institution (1995-2021). Routine NGS was performed on resected tumor tissue of two patients. In this retrospective case series of nine patients (22% female, median (range) age: 64.3 (36-85) years), the most common tumor locations were the atrium of the right lateral ventricle (33%) and the septum pellucidum (33%). Five patients had preoperative hydrocephalus, which was managed with intraoperative external ventricular drains in three patients and ventriculoperitoneal shunts in one patient. Hydrocephalus was managed with subtotal resection of a fourth ventricular IVGBM in one patient. The most common surgical approach was transcortical intraventricular (56%). Gross total resection was achieved in two patients, subtotal resection was achieved in six patients, and one patient received a biopsy only. Immunohistochemistry for IDH1 R132H mutant protein was performed in four cases and was negative in all four. Genetic alterations common in glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype, were seen in two cases with available NGS data, including EGFR gene amplification, TERT promoter mutation, PTEN mutation, trisomy of chromosome 7, and monosomy of chromosome 10. Following surgical resection, four patients received adjuvant chemoradiation. Median survival among our cohort was 4.7 months (IQR: 0.9-5.8 months). Management of IVGBM is particularly challenging due to their anatomical location, presentation with obstructive hydrocephalus, and fast growth, necessitating prompt intervention. Additional studies are needed to better understand the genetic landscape of IVGBM compared to parenchymal glioblastoma and may further elucidate the unique pathophysiology of these rare tumors.

Trigone ventricular glioblastoma multiforme with trapped temporal horn: A case report

Background

Intraventricular glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is extremely rare, especially in the trigone region. This report presents a case of trigone ventricular GBM with trapped temporal horn (TTH).

Case presentation

A 59-year-old woman was admitted to our department with a 1-month history of rapidly progressive headache, nausea, and weakness in the right lower extremity. Head non-contrast computed tomography and enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a trigone ventricular mass lesion with TTH and heterogeneous enhancement. The lesion was found 18 months ago as a small asymptomatic tumor mimicking ependymoma. This neoplasm was removed subtotally through the right parieto-occipital approach guided by neuroendoscopy. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt was subsequently performed to relieve TTH. The final pathological diagnosis was GBM. Unfortunately, 36 days after the first surgery, the patient died due to her family’s decision to refuse therapy.

Conclusion

This rare case shows that GBM should be considered in the differential diagnosis of trigonal tumors. In this case, the tumor possibly originated from the neural stem cells in the subventricular zone. Patients with intraventricular GBM have a worse prognosis, and careful follow-up and early surgery for small intraventricular tumors are necessary, even for those with ependymoma-like radiological findings.

Congenital Glioblastoma with Distinct Clinical and Molecular Characteristics: Case Reports and a Literature Review

BACKGROUND

The molecular diagnosis of brain tumors is important in classifying tumors and determining appropriate treatment. Congenital glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a rare tumor that occurs in infants, and the prognosis is poor. Approximately 60 patients diagnosed with congenital GBM have been reported. However, few reports have conducted molecular analyses of congenital GBM.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We describe 2 congenital GBM patients treated in our hospital, and report results of immunohistochemistry, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), direct sequencing, and methylation analyses. Surgery was performed on both patients at 2 months old, and the cases were diagnosed as glioblastoma. Immunohistochemical staining, FISH, and direct sequencing were positive for glial fibrillary acidic protein and ATRX, partially positive for p53, showed no alteration of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 R132H, H3F3A, HIST1H3B, and BRAF, and indicated no codeletion of 1p and 19q. Methylation analysis of 1 patient identified copy number aberrations of 4 genes: deletions of CDK6 and CDKN2A/B, and a fusion of MET. One patient received chemotherapy consisting of ranimustine, interferon-beta, carboplatin, and etoposide, whereas the other patient received chemotherapy with the modified Children's Cancer Group study-9921 protocol. Residual tumors in both patients were decreased, and they achieved 18-year- and 9-month progression-free survival, respectively. In addition, we reviewed 65 previously reported congenital GBM patients, and found they have better prognosis than pediatric and adult GBM, and long-term survival can be expected.

CONCLUSIONS

Congenital GBM demonstrates clinical and molecular characteristics that are different from those of pediatric or adult GBM.

Congenital brain tumors: diagnostic pitfalls and therapeutic interventions

Congenital brain tumors are rare, accounting for 0.5% to 4% of all pediatric brain tumors. A 10-year retrospective study based on autopsy and neurosurgical clinical reports with a diagnosis of congenital/fetal/neonatal brain tumor identified 6 cases. Four cases were diagnosed antenatally by neuroradiology. Clinical outcomes in 5 cases resulted in death; 1 patient with choroid plexus papilloma underwent successful resection of the tumor and is still alive. Tumor pathologies consisted of 2 teratomas, 2 choroid plexus papillomas, 1 gemistocytic astrocytoma, and 1 glioblastoma multiforme. A literature review of all fetal cases specific to the pathologies presented in this series was also performed. Relative to the literature, this series contains a rare case of congenital gemistocytic astrocytoma. This series further sheds light on the diagnostic, histological, prognostic, and therapeutic differences between congenital brain tumors and tumors of the same pathology in older pediatric and adult populations.

Intraventricular glioblastoma: a paediatric case report

The authors report the case of a nine-year-old boy admitted with raised intracranial pressure in relation with a tumour of the right lateral ventricle. Complete removal of the lesion was achieved and pathological diagnosis was glioblastoma multiform. Adjuvant radio and chemotherapy was given, but the child died from a recurrence of the disease one year after diagnosis. In addition, last MRI demonstrated, distant from the initial tumor site, an extra-cerebral lesion that is supposed to be a glioma metastasis rather than a radio-induced tumour.

Congenital glioblastoma

We describe the case a 2-day-old female with congenital glioblastoma. Total resection was followed by adjuvant and high dose chemotherapy, as indicated by the current Italian infant protocol. The child is alive and well 18 months after diagnosis. A review of 67 selected congenital brain tumors showed the mortality rate was 82%. Even though the majority of patients had glioblastoma, only 5/67 had received adjuvant therapy. To ensure optimal outcomes, we recommend total or subtotal surgical resection, followed by adjuvant and high dose chemotherapy. Given the lack specific protocols for congenital brain tumors an international consensus seems to be needed, starting with congenital glioblastoma.

Fetal intracranial tumors: a review of 27 cases

Fetal intracranial tumors are rare. The diagnosis is generally made on histology after birth. The aim of this study was to analyze clinical and imaging data in a series of fetal intracranial tumors and emphasize the findings that may help approach the diagnosis antenatally. We retrospectively analyzed imaging and clinical findings in 27 cases of fetal intracranial tumors assessed by ultrasound (27/27) and MR imaging (24/27). A histological diagnosis was always obtained. Main diagnoses included 15 germinal tumors (13 teratomas), 4 glial tumors, 2 craniopharyngiomas and 3 hamartomas. Average gestational age at diagnosis was 27 weeks for teratomas, 21 weeks for hamartomas and 34 weeks for glial tumors. All tumors but one were supra tentorial, and the lesion extended in the posterior fossa in two teratomas. A heterogeneous pattern, which was more frequently seen in teratomas, was better visualized by MR than US imaging. In addition, in two cases of teratomas, MR imaging better assessed the extension of the tumor. Teratomas and gliomas are the most frequent brain tumors in the fetus. US and MR imagings appear complementary in the prenatal assessment of these lesions.

Congenital glioblastoma multiforme: case report and review of the literature

Congenital glioblastoma multiforme is a rare primary brain tumor that has a unique biology distinct from pediatric and adult variants. In this report, we present a case of congenital glioblastoma with complicated management course. A literature review of previously reported cases is included to illustrate the epidemiology and natural history of this disease. A 9-month-old male infant developed acute lethargy, hemiparesis and unilaterally dilated pupil. Imaging studies revealed a large hemispheric tumor, resulting in significant midline shift suggestive of impending herniation. Emergent tumor cystic fluid drainage was performed at initial presentation. A frontotemporoparietal craniotomy was performed on the following day to attempt a gross total resection. Adjuvant chemotherapy consisting of oral temozolomide was administered. The patient eventually succumbed 4 months later due to aggressive tumor progression. Congenital glioblastoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of infants with large intracranial tumors. Although surgical intervention may increase survival, the overall outcome remains poor despite maximal multimodal treatment.

Congenital glioblastoma multiforme. Case report and review of the literature

Congenital intracranial tumors are rare. If such a lesion is detected before birth, it is usually an incidental finding on fetal ultrasonography. The definition of a "congenital" tumor is controversial. The authors report the case of a "definite" congenital glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) diagnosed with the aid of ultrasonography and fetal magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the 37th week of gestation. Postnatal MR imaging revealed a massive tumor occupying the patient's left temporoparietooccipital area. Angiography was performed to assess vascularity and embolize the main feeding arteries. Surgery was performed, and the tumor was successfully excised completely. The histopathological diagnosis of the tumor was GBM. An examination of the tumor cells revealed no p53 accumulation, a high MIB-1 index (87.5%), and no staining for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Adjuvant chemotherapy was administered, and the patient is doing well at 23 months of age. Congenital GBM should be considered in the differential diagnosis in cases in which a fetal ultrasonography study or fetal MR image reveals a tumor, especially in the presence of intratumoral hemorrhage. Radical tumor removal, administration of adjuvant therapy, and biological findings (such as a lack of the overexpression of p53 and EGFR in the tumor cells) all point to a longer survival time.

Congenital glioblastoma multiforme with abnormal vascularity presenting as intracranial hemorrhage in prenatal ultrasound

BACKGROUND

A rare case of a congenital brain neoplasm with intratumoral massive hemorrhage suggested by prenatal ultrasound examination in a 32-week gestational age male fetus is reported. The child died shortly after birth due to cardiorespiratory insufficiency.

METHODS

Autopsy disclosed a large well-delimited tumor with a sponge-like appearance due to high vascularization, which involved nearly the whole left cerebral hemisphere and led to marked hydrocephalus by secondary aqueductal stenosis. Histological and immunohistochemical examination confirmed the diagnosis of a malignant glioma with features of a glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) matching well with previous findings in primary pediatric GBMs.

FINDINGS

The present case demonstrates that malignant congenital neoplasms should be considered in the differential diagnosis of fetal intracranial hemorrhage.

Intraventricular gliomas

Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumor in adults, and those within or relating to the ventricular surface represent a less common but important subcategory. The most common intraventricular gliomas include ependymomas, SEs, and SEGAs. Other less common varieties have been reported, including chordoid gliomas, glioblastoma multiforme, and mixed glial-neuronal tumors. Each type of intraventricular glioma is associated with its own unique constellation of epidemiologic, clinical, radiologic, and pathologic defining characteristics. Each tumor type has its own management considerations and nuances with unique prognostic indicators and outcomes. The outcome for certain intraventricular gliomas (especially ependymomas) remains relatively poor. Future advancements in surgical technique are likely to have only a modest impact on improvement of outcome. Translational research aiming to advance the knowledge of tumor biology into new targeted cellular and molecular therapies holds tremendous promise to improve the overall outcome. Additionally, more thorough delineation of prognostic factors as well as modifications and refinements to radiation and chemotherapy may help to improve the still significantly poor outcomes for patients harboring these lesions. Future cooperative intra- and interinstitutional efforts between scientists and clinicians will hopefully culminate in an improved outlook and eventual cure for patients with gliomas.

Fast MR imaging of fetal central nervous system abnormalities

PURPOSE

To evaluate with respect to gestational age (GA) the effect of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging on changes in diagnosis, patient counseling, and case management regarding fetuses suspected of having central nervous system (CNS) anomalies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors compared images from 242 ultrasonographic (US) studies and 242 MR imaging studies of the CNS in 214 fetuses. Reference standards of postnatal physical examination, imaging, surgical, and autopsy findings were available in 171 (79.9%) fetuses. Referring physicians were surveyed on how MR imaging findings changed patient counseling or case management. Outcomes were compared with respect to GA. Statistical tests used were the Fisher exact test, Student t test, and analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Confirmatory US findings were normal in 69 fetuses. MR imaging findings changed diagnosis in 46 of 145 (31.7%) fetuses with abnormal US findings. The mean GA of 72 of 145 fetuses with changes in maternal counseling (25.9 weeks) was significantly greater than that in 73 of 145 fetuses without changes in maternal counseling (22.6 weeks, P <.01). The mean GA of the 46 fetuses with changes in diagnosis (26.3 weeks) was significantly greater than that of the 99 fetuses with no major change in diagnosis (23.3 weeks, P <.01). There were 27 of 145 changes in case management, with no significant difference in mean GA of fetuses with and those without changes in case management. In fetuses with abnormal US findings, MR images were used to decide to terminate the pregnancy (n = 13; mean GA, 20.1 weeks), continue the pregnancy (n = 4; mean GA, 19.2 weeks), direct the mode and/or location of delivery (n = 5; mean GA, 30.5 weeks), and direct perinatal care (n = 5; mean GA, 30.2 weeks).

CONCLUSION

When a CNS anomaly is detected or suspected at US, MR imaging may demonstrate additional findings that can alter diagnosis and case management. Changes in management are GA dependent.

MR imaging of fetal central nervous system abnormalities

Ultrasound is the screening modality of choice for fetal imaging. However, when additional information regarding fetal anatomy or pathology is needed, fast MR imaging is increasingly being used as a correlative imaging modality. Performances of high quality sonographic and MR examinations as well as interpretation by individuals familiar with prenatal diagnosis are important factors for optimal parental counseling. MR imaging frequently adds additional information regarding fetal central nervous system anomalies beyond that available with ultrasound. This information commonly changes patient counseling, and at times patient management.

Ultrafast MRI of the fetus

During the last decade there has been increasing interest in MRI for the evaluation of ultrasound-detected fetal abnormalities. Motion artefacts previously precluded detailed imaging, but this is now possible using single-shot rapid acquisition sequences. These ultrafast techniques with subsecond images capture 'snap-shot' views of the fetus. By virtue of the infinitely long relaxation time (TR) these images are heavily T2-weighted so that fluid around and within the fetus delineates the anatomy. Currently, fetal MRI has shown to be most beneficial in the investigation of cerebral abnormalities suspected from sonography, and in the detection of subtle associated anomalies. It clearly has a role in the evaluation of complex somatic abnormalities, and is helpful in the evaluation of fetuses prior to surgery. We present a pictorial review of our experience with single-shot fast spin-echo (SSFSE) imaging, demonstrating normal anatomy of the fetal brain and body. In addition we present cerebral and somatic abnormalities to illustrate cases where we have found fetal MRI to be a useful adjunct to sonography.

Magnetic resonance imaging in prenatal diagnosis

Ultrasound is the screening modality of choice for fetal imaging. However, when additional information regarding fetal anatomy or pathology is needed, fast magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is being used increasingly as a correlative imaging modality because it uses no ionizing radiation, provides excellent soft tissue contrast, has multiple planes for reconstruction, and a large field of view. Sonographic examination of the fetus is still important for selecting the appropriate fetuses for MR examination and to guide the protocol of the examination. Performance of high quality sonographic and MR examinations, as well as interpretation by individuals familiar with prenatal diagnosis, are important factors for optimal parental counseling. Magnetic resonance imaging frequently adds additional information beyond that available with ultrasound. This information commonly changes patient counseling, and at times patient management.

Obstetric MR imaging

The surge in the development of fast magnetic resonance (MR) techniques has revolutionized our ability to image the pregnant patient and the fetus. Fast MR imaging techniques provide excellent resolution for imaging the maternal and fetal anatomies without the need for sedation. This article addresses the use of fast MR imaging techniques in the evaluation of the pregnant patient for adnexal masses, pelvimetry, hydroureteronephrosis of pregnancy, and placenta accreta. In addition, fetal anomalies for which MR imaging has proved useful, such as ventriculomegaly, arachnoid cysts, and abdominal masses, are described.

Cortical maturation in normal and abnormal fetuses as assessed with prenatal MR imaging

PURPOSE

To establish the appearance of normal fetal cortical development in utero and compare it with the appearance of abnormal cortical development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Magnetic resonance (MR) images of the brain in 53 normal and 40 abnormal fetuses at 14-38 weeks gestational age (GA) were reviewed. The GAs at the time of MR imaging visualization of the fissures or sulci were compared with the GA guidelines based on neuroanatomic studies.

RESULTS

In normal fetuses, the sulcation landmarks appeared on MR images in the order predicted by using anatomic studies, with a 0-8-week lag in the MR imaging visualization of the sulci compared with the reported time of visualization of the sulci in anatomic specimens. When landmarks were grouped by range of GAs, the expected MR imaging sulcation landmarks in the group with younger GAs than the actual GA were seen in 50 of 53 (94%) normal fetuses, in five of nine fetuses (56%, P < .05) with isolated mild ventriculomegaly, and in 24 of 31 fetuses (77%, P < .05) with other CNS anomalies.

CONCLUSION

Normal fetal cortical maturation at MR imaging follows a predictable course that is slightly delayed compared with that described in neuroanatomic specimens. This maturation is often further delayed in fetuses with CNS abnormalities.