Diffuse Gliomas with FGFR3::TACC3 Fusion: Morphological and Molecular Features and Classification Challenges

Abstract

FGFR3::TACC3 fusion is a driver, potentially targetable, genetic alteration identified in approximately 4% of high-grade diffuse gliomas and rare cases with low-grade histology. Herein, we review the genetic and epigenetic features of these tumors and highlight the challenges in their classification and grading. Diffuse gliomas with FGFR3::TACC3 fusion display unique histopathological and molecular features, including an oligodendroglioma-like appearance, calcifications, and CD34 extravascular immunoreactivity. High-grade tumors exhibit molecular alterations and a DNA methylation profile typical of glioblastoma, suggesting that they may represent a subtype clinically characterized by a slightly better prognosis. Tumors with low-grade morphology are genetically and epigenetically heterogeneous. Some, exclusive to adults, have molecular alterations typical of glioblastoma, although most do not match any methylation classes, using version 12.5 of the Heidelberg classifier. Another group, which mostly affects children or adolescents, lacks the molecular features of glioblastoma and has a DNA methylation profile similar to that of low-grade glioneuronal tumors. In conclusion, diffuse gliomas with FGFR3::TACC3 fusion do not constitute a distinct nosological entity, owing to their genetic and epigenetic diversity. Further studies are warranted to clarify the biological aggressiveness of tumors with low-grade histology to refine the grading and determine the optimal treatment strategy.