Self-Assessment Modules

Astrocytomas constitute the largest group of primary central nervous system neoplasms in adults, and a very significant percentage of neoplasms in children.

The current WHO classification scheme recognizes a group of neoplasms under this category. This 1-hour SAM aims to present the most critical components of this diverse group of neoplasms. At the end of this module, the participant will be able to:

1. Describe the critical clinical and pathological features of pilocytic astrocytoma.
2. Recognize similarities and differences between pilocytic and pilomyxoid astrocytoma.
3. Define pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and designate a WHO grade for this neoplasm.
4. Describe the CNS lesions seen in the setting of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, and recognize critical features of Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma.
5. List different morphological variants of diffuse astrocytoma.
6. List the critical histological components in grading infiltrating astrocytomas.
7. Describe differences and similarities between anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma.
8. List the different and pertinent variants of glioblastoma
9. Define gliomatosis cerebri and recognize its distinguishing features.