AUTHOR=Cockle Julia V. , Corley Elizabeth A. , Zebian Bassel , Hettige Samantha , Vaidya Sucheta J. , Angelini Paola , Stone Joanna , Leitch R Jane , Albanese Assunta , Mandeville Henry C. , Carceller Fernando , Marshall Lynley V. 

TITLE=Novel therapeutic approaches for pediatric diencephalic tumors: improving functional outcomes

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Oncology

VOLUME=13

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2023.1178553

DOI=10.3389/fonc.2023.1178553

ISSN=2234-943X

ABSTRACT=<p>Pediatric diencephalic tumors represent a histopathologically and molecularly diverse group of neoplasms arising in the central part of the brain and involving eloquent structures, including the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA), optic pathway, thalamus, and pineal gland. Presenting symptoms can include significant neurological, endocrine, or visual manifestations which may be exacerbated by injudicious intervention. Upfront multidisciplinary assessment and coordinated management is crucial from the outset to ensure best short- and long-term functional outcomes. In this review we discuss the clinical and pathological features of the neoplastic entities arising in this location, and their management. We emphasize a clear move towards ‘function preserving’ diagnostic and therapeutic approaches with novel toxicity-sparing strategies, including targeted therapies.</p>