The Latest Understanding of Molecular Genetics, Diagnosis and Treatment of Childhood Malignant Glioma |Biomedgrid

Despite the histological resemblance of pediatric high-grade gliomas (PHGG) to their adult counterparts, they characterised by significant intra-tumor and inter-tumor heterogeneity and have distinct biological differences. Unlike the advances in the treatment of other malignancies, the clinical outcome of PHGG remains poor due to lack of significant progress in their current treatment protocols which typically comprise of surgery followed by radiotherapy and temozolomide. However, as our knowledge of the molecular biology of PHGG increases, novel approaches, such as molecular-based therapies have become new avenues that are required to be tested further in clinical trials. This review will critically appraise the latest advances in the understanding of the genetic dysregulations of PHGG and their role in disease pathogenesis, progression, and potential role in designing individualized molecular-based therapy with the view of improving patient's survival and quality of life.