Updated 2016 WHO classification of tumors of the CNS: turning the corner where molecule meets pathology

• Published in: Brain tumor pathology Vol. 34; no. 4; pp. 139 - 140
• Main Author: Komori, Takashi
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Singapore Springer Singapore 01.10.2017; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Brain cancer; Brain research; Cancer Research; Central Nervous System Neoplasms - classification; Central Nervous System Neoplasms - diagnosis; Central Nervous System Neoplasms - ultrastructure; Classification; Editorial; Genetic Testing; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence; Isocitrate Dehydrogenase - genetics; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Microscopy; Mutation; Nervous system; Neurology; Neurosurgery; Oncology; Pathology; Tumors; World Health Organization; Japan
• ISSN: 1433-7398; 1861-387X
• DOI: 10.1007/s10014-017-0299-3

The 2016 WHO requires the evaluation of canonical genetic alterations [5]; hence inconsistent molecular test results have created new diagnostic challenges requiring a more cautious application of molecular testing along with careful weighing of clinical, radiological, and histological data. In Japan, the cost of genetic testing, including IHC, is not covered by the national health care program due to budgetary constraints. The law also prohibits charging such costs to the patients, with the result that these tests are generally unavailable in daily practice except at research facilities where grant money may be used to cover the costs under the rubric of clinical research. The core criteria for the diagnosis of brain tumors must rest on a solid, time-tested foundation, at least until the newer methods have achieved a level of reliability comparable to those which have withstood the test of time.