ABSTRACT
Central nervous system (CNS) tumors account for tremendous morbidity and mortality. In the United States, the annual incidence of primary brain tumors approaches 16,800 people and corresponds with 13,100 lesion-related deaths (1). Histopathological classification deconstructs primary brain tumors into several categories based on grade and cell of origin. Gliomas, for example, derive from glial cells and constitute half of all primary brain tumors. Astrocytomas, in turn, encompass three-quarters of all gliomas, and define a heterogeneous tumor class ranging from low-grade to high-grade anaplastic variants. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) represents the most common and aggressive form of astrocytoma.
