Gangliogliomas: recent advances in classification and treatment

Abstract

Gangliogliomas are uncommon neoplasms of the CNS and, as a consequence, few randomized, clinical trials have been performed, thereby limiting treatment guidelines. The best management of newly diagnosed gangliogliomas entails a complete resection, corroborated by postoperative contrast-enhanced MRI. If an incomplete resection is documented, a second attempt at gross total resection should be considered, given the prognostic significance of complete resection. Small-volume residual disease is best managed with involved-field radiotherapy. The role of chemotherapy is uncertain and, in general, would be reserved for patients having previously failed surgery and radiotherapy. This article summarizes the most important available up-to-date information on clinical, prognostic, radiological, pathological and therapeutic findings for gangliogliomas in order to provide valuable guidance for the diagnosis and management of such uncommon tumors. This information may be considered as possible background for future studies designed to clarify the complex management of these tumors.