Outcomes and Prognostic Factors of Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound Thalamotomy for Essential Tremor at 2-year Follow-up

Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy is an effective treatment for essential tremor (ET). However, its long-term outcomes and prognostic factors remain unclear. This study aimed to retrospectively investigate 38 patients with ET who underwent MRgFUS thalamotomy and were followed up for >2 years. The improvement in tremor was evaluated using the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor (CRST). Adverse events were documented, and correlations with factors, such as skull density ratio (SDR), maximum mean temperature (T-max), and lesion size, were examined. Furthermore, the outcomes were compared between two groups, one that met the cutoff values, which was previously reported (preoperative CRST-B ≤ 25, T-max ≥ 52.5°C, anterior-posterior size of lesion ≥ 3.9 mm, superior-inferior [SI] size of lesion > 5.5 mm), and the other that did not. The improvement rate was 59.4% on average at the 2-year follow-up. Adverse events, such as numbness (15.8%), dysarthria (10.5%), and lower extremity weakness (2.6%), were observed even after 2 years, although these were mild. The factors correlated with tremor improvement were the T-max and SI size of the lesion (p < 0.05), whereas the SDR showed no significance. Patients who met the aforementioned cutoff values demonstrated a 69.8% improvement at the 2-year follow-up, whereas others showed a 43.6% improvement (p < 0.05). In conclusion, MRgFUS is effective even after 2 years. The higher the T-max and the larger the lesion size, the better the tremor control. Previously reported cutoff values clearly predict the 2-year prognosis, indicating the usefulness of MRgFUS.

Comparison of short-term outcomes of robotic and laparoscopic transabdominal peritoneal repair for unilateral inguinal hernia: a propensity-score matched analysis

PURPOSE

This study aimed to compare perioperative outcomes of robotic and laparoscopic transabdominal peritoneal repair (TAPP) for unilateral inguinal hernia.

METHODS

This single institutional retrospective cohort study used de-identified data of patients who underwent robotic TAPP (R-TAPP) or laparoscopic TAPP (L-TAPP) for unilateral inguinal hernia between January 1, 2016 and October 31, 2021. Two cohorts were propensity matched, and data were analyzed. The learning curve was evaluated in the R-TAPP group.

RESULTS

Among 938 patients analyzed, 704 were included. After propensity-score matching, 80 patients were included in each group. The difference in operative time between R-TAPP and L-TAPP groups was 10 min (99.5 and 89.5 min, p = 0.087); however, console/laparoscopic time was similar (67 and 66 min, p = 0.71). The dissection time for medial-type hernia in the R-TAPP group was marginally shorter than that in the L-TAPP group (17 and 27 min, p = 0.056); however, there was no difference for lateral-type hernia (38.5 and 40 min p = 0.37). Perioperative variables, including estimated blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, and postoperative pain, had no significant difference, and chronic pain, which needed medication or intervention, was not observed in each group. The number of cases needed to achieve plateau performance was 7-10 in the R-TAPP group.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that R-TAPP was safely introduced, and its perioperative outcomes were not inferior to those of L-TAPP. A shorter dissection time for medial-type hernia might be due to the robot's advantages, and a fast-learning curve could help with the early standardization of the procedure.

Moyamoya disease-specific extracellular vesicle-derived microRNAs in the cerebrospinal fluid revealed by comprehensive expression analysis through microRNA sequencing

PURPOSE

To examine the specific changes that occur in the expression levels of extracellular vesicle-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) in intracranial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in moyamoya disease.

METHODS

Patients with arteriosclerotic cerebral ischemia were used as controls to eliminate the effects of cerebral ischemia. Intracranial CSF was collected from moyamoya disease and control patients during bypass surgery. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) were extracted from the CSF. Comprehensive expression analysis of miRNAs extracted from EVs by next-generation sequencing (NGS) and validation by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed.

RESULTS

Experiments were conducted on eight cases of moyamoya disease and four control cases. In the comprehensive miRNA expression analysis, 153 miRNAs were upregulated, and 98 miRNAs were downregulated in moyamoya disease compared to the control cases (q-value < 0.05 and |log2 fold change|> 1). qRT-PCR performed on the four most variable miRNAs (hsa-miR-421, hsa-miR-361-5p, hsa-miR-320a, and hsa-miR-29b-3p) associated with vascular lesions among the differentially expressed miRNAs gave the same results as miRNA sequencing. On gene ontology (GO) analysis for the target genes, cytoplasmic stress granule was the most significant GO term.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first comprehensive expression analysis of EV-derived miRNAs in the CSF of moyamoya disease patients using NGS. The miRNAs identified here may be related to the etiology and pathophysiology of moyamoya disease.

Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy restored distinctive resting-state networks in patients with essential tremor

OBJECTIVE

Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy ameliorates symptoms in patients with essential tremor (ET). How this treatment affects canonical brain networks has not been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to clarify changes of brain networks after MRgFUS thalamotomy in ET patients by analyzing resting-state networks (RSNs).

METHODS

Fifteen patients with ET were included in this study. Left MRgFUS thalamotomy was performed in all cases, and MR images, including resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI), were taken before and after surgery. MR images of 15 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were also used for analysis. Using rsfMRI data, canonical RSNs were extracted by performing dual regression analysis, and the functional connectivity (FC) within respective networks was compared among pre-MRgFUS patients, post-MRgFUS patients, and HCs. The severity of tremor was evaluated using the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor (CRST) score pre- and postoperatively, and its correlation with RSNs was examined.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, ET patients showed a significant decrease in FC in the sensorimotor network (SMN), primary visual network (VN), and visuospatial network (VSN) compared with HCs. The decrease in FC in the SMN correlated with the severity of tremor. After MRgFUS thalamotomy, ET patients still exhibited a significant decrease in FC in a small area of the SMN, but they exhibited an increase in the cerebellar network (CN). In comparison between pre- and post-MRgFUS patients, the FC in the SMN and the VSN significantly increased after treatment. Quantitative evaluation of the FCs in these three groups showed that the SMN and VSN increased postoperatively and demonstrated a trend toward those of HCs.

CONCLUSIONS

The SMN and CN, which are considered to be associated with the cerebello-thalamo-cortical loop, exhibited increased connectivity after MRgFUS thalamotomy. In addition, the FC of the visual network, which declined in ET patients compared with HCs, tended to normalize postoperatively. This could be related to the hypothesis that visual feedback is involved in tremor severity in ET patients. Overall, the analysis of the RSNs by rsfMRI reflected the pathophysiology with the intervention of MRgFUS thalamotomy in ET patients and demonstrated a possibility of a biomarker for successful treatment.

CD79B Y196 mutation is a potent predictive marker for favorable response to R-MPV in primary central nervous system lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Rituximab, high-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX), procarbazine and vincristine (R-MPV), has significantly prolonged the survival of patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), but predictive factors for response to R-MPV have not yet been investigated. Herein, we investigated the correlation of MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutations, which are the most frequently found molecular alterations in PCNSL, with prognosis of patients with PCNSL treated with R-MPV.

METHODS

We investigated the long-term clinical course and status of MYD88 and CD79B genes in 85 patients with PCNSL treated with R-MPV or HD-MTX treatment, and the correlation of these genetic mutations with prognosis.

RESULTS

R-MPV achieved an excellent tumor control rate (61.6% and 69.9% of 5-year progression-free and overall survival rates, respectively). While MYD88 L265P mutation had no significant effect on survival, patients with CD79B Y196 mutations exhibited prolonged survival (p < 0.05). However, the association of CD79B Y196 mutation with a better prognosis was not observed in the HD-MTX cohort, which indicated that CD79B Y196 mutation was a predictive marker for a favorable response to R-MPV. Furthermore, we established an all-in-one rapid genotyping system for these genetic mutations.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, CD79B Y196 mutation is a potent predictive marker for favorable response to R-MPV in PCNSL. The rapid identification of MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutations can be helpful not only for the accurate molecular diagnosis of PCNSL but also for the prediction of response to R-MPV.

ACT-2 JCOG0911A2 AND ESTABLISHING AN INFRASTRUCTURE FOR RADIOLOGICAL STUDIES FOR JCOG BRAIN TUMOR STUDY GROUP CLINICAL TRIALS

Background

Radiological information is indispensable to understanding the pathology and correctly assessing the treatment response of malignant brain tumors. Clinical trials conducted outside of Japan have vigorously collected and investigated radiological images of the enrolled patients and published many significant findings, such as the RANO criteria. The authors initiated the JCOG0911A2 study, which is an ancillary analysis of JCOG0911, and established an infrastructure for collecting and analyzing raw radiological images of patients enrolled in clinical trials conducted by the JCOG brain tumor study group. JCOG0911A2 study design and infrastructure for radiological image storage: JCOG0911A2 aims to collect all radiological images related to the JCOG0911 study, conduct radiomics analysis, and complete general radiological research. Among 122 registered patients, 2532 series from 118 cases accounting for 237 GB of data were collected as of June 28, 2022. All collected data were anonymized and stored in Osirix MD with triple data backup. JCOG0911A2's treatment response assessment will be performed according to the RANO criteria. Thus, the authors developed a script in MATLAB that enables semi-automatic treatment response assessment according to the investigators' annotations on Osirix MD.

Data Management

The abovementioned “semi-automatic treatment response assessment script” was not necessary until up to a collection of 30 cases. However, manual management became impossible as more case data arrived, and establishing a sophisticated and systematic data management system was inevitable. The data management system developed for JCOG0911A2 is also used with minor modifications for the ongoing JCOG study.

Conclusion

JCOG0911A2 study established a reliable infrastructure capable of handling radiological images from patients enrolled in JCOG brain tumor study group clinical trials.

BIOM-58. ROLE OF CD79B Y196 MUTATION IN PCNSL AS A POTENT PREDICTIVE MARKER FOR FAVORABLE RESPONSE TO R-MPV TREATMENT AND DEVELOPMENT OF RAPID ALL-IN-ONE GENOTYPING SYSTEM FOR MOLECULAR MARKERS OF PCNSL

Although high-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX)-based chemotherapy, such as rituximab, HD-MTX, procarbazine and vincristine (R-MPV) regimen, has significantly prolonged the survival of patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), predictive factors for response to R-MPV have not yet been investigated. Then, we investigated the correlation of MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutations, which are the most frequently found molecular alterations in PCNSL, with prognosis of patients with PCNSL treated with R-MPV. 47 and 21 patients with PCNSL treated with R-MPV and HD-MTX respectively were included, and correlation of their MYD88 and CD79B status with prognosis was analyzed. R-MPV achieved an excellent tumor control rate (61.6% and 69.9% of 5-year progression-free and overall survival rates, respectively). Among the 47 patients, 36 harbored MYD88 L265P or CD79B Y196 mutations. While the MYD88 L265P mutation had no significant effect on survival, patients with CD79B Y196 mutations exhibited prolonged survival (P &lt; 0.05). However, the association of the CD79B Y196 mutation with a better prognosis was not observed in the HD-MTX cohort, which indicated that the CD79B Y196 mutation was a predictive marker for a favorable response to R-MPV. Furthermore, we established an all-in-one rapid genotyping system for these genetic mutations. This system enabled the detection of these genetic mutations in a small amount of biopsy samples within 90 min. In conclusion, we revealed that the CD79B Y196 mutation is associated with a good response to R-MPV, and the rapid and accurate genotyping system for MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutations that we developed in this study will enable reliable rapid molecular diagnosis and early prediction of response to R-MPV, which might help to determine the best treatment strategy for PCNSL.

Bevacizumab beyond Progression for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma (BIOMARK): Phase II Safety, Efficacy and Biomarker Study

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of bevacizumab beyond progression (BBP) in Japanese patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma and explored predictors of response to bevacizumab. This phase II study evaluated a protocol-defined primary therapy by radiotherapy with concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide plus bevacizumab, followed by bevacizumab monotherapy, and secondary therapy (BBP: bevacizumab upon progression). Ninety patients received the protocol-defined primary therapy (BBP group, n = 25). Median overall survival (mOS) and median progression-free survival (mPFS) were 25.0 and 14.9 months, respectively. In the BBP group, in which O⁶-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT)-unmethylated tumors predominated, mOS and mPFS were 5.8 and 1.9 months from BBP initiation and 16.8 and 11.4 months from the initial diagnosis, respectively. The primary endpoint, the 2-year survival rate of the BBP group, was 27.0% and was unmet. No unexpected adverse events occurred. Expression profiling using RNA sequencing identified that Cluster 2, which was enriched with the genes involved in macrophage or microglia activation, was associated with longer OS and PFS independent of the MGMT methylation status. Cluster 2 was identified as a significantly favorable independent predictor for PFS, along with younger age and methylated MGMT. The novel expression classifier may predict the prognosis of glioblastoma patients treated with bevacizumab.

ADC Level is Related to DWI Reversal in Patients Undergoing Mechanical Thrombectomy: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In patients with ischemic stroke, DWI lesions can occasionally be reversed by reperfusion therapy. This study aimed to ascertain the relationship between ADC levels and DWI reversal in patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent recanalization treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent endovascular mechanical thrombectomy with successful recanalization between April 2017 and March 2021. DWI reversal was assessed through follow-up MR imaging approximately 24 hours after treatment.

RESULTS

In total, 118 patients were included. DWI reversal was confirmed in 42 patients. The ADC level in patients with reversal was significantly higher than that in patients without reversal. Eighty-three percent of patients with DWI reversal areas had mean ADC levels of ≥520 × 10^-6 mm²/s, and 71% of patients without DWI reversal areas had mean ADC levels of <520 × 10^-6 mm²/s. The mean ADC threshold was 520 × 10^-6 mm²/s with a sensitivity and specificity of 71% and 83%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the mean ADC level (OR, 1.023; 95% CI, 1.013-1.033; P < .0001) was independently associated with DWI reversal. Patients with DWI reversal areas had earlier neurologic improvement (NIHSS at 7 days) than patients without reversal areas (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In acute ischemic stroke, the ADC value is independently associated with DWI reversal. Lesions with a mean ADC of ≥520 × 10^-6 mm²/s are salvageable by mechanical thrombectomy, and DWI reversal areas regain neurologic function. The ADC value is easily assessed and is a useful tool to predict viable lesions.

Cutoff values for the best management strategy for magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound ablation for essential tremor

OBJECTIVE

The efficacy of magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) ablation for essential tremor (ET) is well known; however, no prognostic factors have been established. The authors aimed to retrospectively investigate MRgFUS ablation outcomes and associated factors and to define the cutoff values for each prognostic factor.

METHODS

Sixty-four Japanese patients who underwent unilateral ventral intermediate nucleus thalamotomy with MRgFUS for ET were included. Follow-up evaluations were performed at 1 week and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Tremor suppression was evaluated using the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor (CRST), and adverse effects were recorded postoperatively. Outcome-associated factors were examined preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively using multivariate analyses. The cutoff values for the prognostic factors were calculated using receiver operating characteristics.

RESULTS

Percentage improvements in the CRST scores of the affected upper limb were 82.4%, 72.2%, 68.6%, and 65.9% at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Preoperatively, a high skull density ratio (SDR) (p ≤ 0.047), low CRST part B score (used to assess tremors during several tasks) (cutoff value 25, p ≤ 0.041), and nonoccurrence of resting tremors (p = 0.027) were significantly associated with improved tremor control. An intraoperatively high maximum mean temperature (cutoff value 52.5°C, p ≤ 0.047), postoperatively large lesion (cutoff value 3.9 mm in the anterior-posterior direction, p ≤ 0.002; cutoff value 5.0-5.55 mm in the superior-inferior direction, p ≤ 0.026), and small transducer focus correction (p ≤ 0.015) were also associated with improved tremor control. No valid cutoff value was found for SDR. Adverse effects (limb weakness, sensory disturbance, ataxia/walking disturbance, dysgeusia, dysarthria, and facial swelling) occurred transiently and were associated with high SDR, high temperature, high number of sonication sessions, large lesion, and occurrence of resting tremor. Patients who developed leg weakness experienced greater percentage improvement in tremors at 3 months postoperatively than those who did not.

CONCLUSIONS

MRgFUS ablation could be used to achieve good tremor control with acceptable adverse effects in Japanese patients with ET. The relatively low SDR in Asian ethnic groups as compared with that of Western populations makes treatment difficult; however, the cutoff values obtained in this study may be useful for achieving good treatment outcomes even in such patients. Clinical trial registration no.: UMIN000026952 (University Hospital Medical Information Network).

ABBREVIATIONS

ACPC = anterior commissure-posterior commissure; AP = anterior to posterior; CRST = Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor; ET = essential tremor; MRgFUS = magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound; PC = posterior commissure; PSA = posterior subthalamic area; RL = right to left; ROC = receiver operating characteristic; SDR = skull density ratio; SI = superior to inferior; T2WI = T2-weighted imaging; VIM = ventral intermediate nucleus.

Functional connector hubs in the cerebellum

Accumulating evidence from anatomical and neuroimaging studies suggests that the cerebellum is engaged in a variety of motor and cognitive tasks. Given its various functions, a key question is whether the cerebellum also plays an important role in the brain's integrative functions. Here, we hypothesize the existence of connector regions, also known as connector hubs, where multiple resting state networks converged in the cerebellum. To verify this, we employed a recently developed voxel-level network measure called functional connectivity overlap ratio (FCOR), which could be used to quantify the spatial extent of a region's connection to several large-scale cortical networks. Using resting state functional MRI data from 101 healthy participants, cerebellar FCOR maps were constructed and used to identify the locations of connector hubs in the cerebellum. Results showed that a number of cerebellar regions exhibited strong connectivity with multiple functional networks, verifying our hypothesis. These highly connected regions were located in the posterior cerebellum, especially in lobules VI, VII, and IX, and mainly connected to the core neurocognitive networks such as default mode and executive control networks. Regions associated with the sensorimotor network were also localized in lobule V, VI, and VIII, albeit in small clusters. These cerebellar connector hubs may play an essential role in the processing of information across the core neurocognitive networks.

Levodopa-responsive Parkinsonism Caused by Recurrence of Large Basilar-tip Aneurysm after Stent-assisted Coil Embolization: A Case Report

Aneurysms of the large basilar artery (BA) occasionally cause cranial nerve palsy and motor disorder through mass effect. Since 1967, five cases of cerebral aneurysm leading to parkinsonism have been reported. Herein, we describe a rare case of progressive parkinsonism caused by the recurrence of a large aneurysm of the basilar tip after stent-assisted coil embolization. A 66-year-old man visited our hospital with an asymptomatic large aneurysm (maximum diameter, 21 mm) of the BA tip. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed no perianeurysmal edema. Coil embolization with a Y-configuration stent with cross-placement was performed. Although thrombus formation occurred and the perforator infarction was complicated, complete occlusion was achieved. Three months later, the patient developed progressive and severe parkinsonism. MRI revealed mild enlargement of the aneurysm and perianeurysmal mesencephalic edema with minor neck recurrence. A trial administration of levodopa and additional stent-assisted coil embolization were performed. Levodopa dramatically improved parkinsonism; thus, the patient’s symptoms were controlled by a continuous levodopa regimen. In a large BA-tip aneurysm patient, moderate regrowth and minor neck recurrence occurred after initial treatment, and chronic compression of the midbrain caused secondary parkinsonism. In such cases, it is important to consider levodopa administration and therapeutic strategies to prevent recurrence or regrowth.

Survival Benefit of Supratotal Resection in a Long-term Survivor of IDH-wildtype Glioblastoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive cancer type, with fewer than 3–5% of patients surviving for more than 3 years. We describe a 48-year-old right-handed man who presented with generalized seizure attacks. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a heterogeneous gadolinium-enhancing lesion in the left inferior parietal lobule. The patient underwent awake surgery, and tumor resection included abnormalities on T2-weighted MRI, with subcortical mapping used to identify the deep functional boundaries. After supratotal resection, the tumor was diagnosed as GBM without isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) 1 and 2 mutations. At a follow-up evaluation, 9 years and 2 months after the surgery, the patient appeared healthy, and no relapse or recurrence was observed. We present the case of a long-term survivor of IDH-wildtype GBM. This case suggests that supratotal resection with intraoperative awake brain mapping can improve survival without impairing the patient’s neurological functions.

TB-2 Patient-derived meningioma organoid model demonstrates FOXM1 dependent tumor proliferation

Recent comprehensive studies have revealed several molecular alterations that are frequently found in meningiomas. However, effective treatment reagents targeting specific molecular alterations have not yet been identified because of the limited number of representative research models of meningiomas.

We established 18 organoid models comprising of two malignant meningioma cells (HKBMM and IOMM-Lee), 10 benign meningiomas, four malignant meningiomas, and two solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs). Using immunohistochemistry and molecular analyses consisting of whole exome sequencing, RNA-seq, and DNA methylation analyses, we compared the histological findings and molecular profiling of organoid models with those of parental tumors. The organoids exhibited consistent histological features and molecular profiles with those of the parental tumors. Using a public database of meningioma, we identified that upregulated forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) was correlated with increased tumor proliferation. Overexpression of FOXM1 in benign meningioma organoids increased organoid proliferation; depletion of FOXM1 in malignant organoids decreased proliferation. Additionally, thiostrepton, a FOXM1 inhibitor combined with radiation therapy, significantly inhibited proliferation of malignant meningioma organoid models (P<0.01).

An organoid model for meningioma enabled us to elucidate the tumor biology of meningioma along with potent treatment targets for meningioma.

STMO-6 Impact of the extent of resection on the survival of patients with lower grade gliomas using awake brain mapping

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the extent of resection (EOR) of tumors on survival in a series of patients with lower-grade gliomas (LGGs) who underwent awake brain mapping.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 126 patients with LGGs in the dominant and non-dominant hemisphere who underwent awake brain surgery at the same institution between December 2012 and May 2020.

Results: The median progression-free survival (PFS) rate of patients with LGGs in the group with an EOR &gt;100 %, including supratotal resection (n = 47; median survival [MS], not reached), was significantly higher than that in the group with an EOR &lt;100% (n = 79; MS, 43.1 months; 95% CI: 37.8–48.4 months; p = 0.04). In patients with diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas, the group with EOR &gt;100 %, including supratotal resection (n = 25; MS, not reached), demonstrated a significantly better PFS rate than did the group with an EOR &lt;100% (n = 45; MS, 35.8 months; 95% CI: 19.9–51.6 months; p = 0.03). Supratotal or gross total resection was correlated with better PFS in IDH-mutant type of diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas (n = 19; MS, not reached vs. n = 35; MS, 40.6 months; 95% CI: 22.3–59.0 months; p = 0.02). By contrast, supratotal or gross total resection was not associated with longer PFS rates in patients with IDH-wild type of diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas.

Conclusions: It is noteworthy that supratotal or gross total resection significantly correlated with better PFS in IDH-mutant type of WHO grade II and III astrocytic tumors. In light of our finding that EOR did not correlate with PFS in patients with aggressive IDH-wild type of diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas, we suggest treatments that are more intensive will be needed for the control of these tumors.

Reliability of IDH1-R132H and ATRX and/or p53 immunohistochemistry for molecular subclassification of Grade 2/3 gliomas

Since the World Health Organization 2016 classification (2016 WHO), genetic status has been incorporated into the diagnosis of Grade 2/3 gliomas (lower-grade gliomas). Therefore, immunohistochemistry (IHC) of IDH1-R132H, ATRX, and p53 have been used in place of genetic status. We report the associations between histological findings, IHC, and genetic status. We performed IHC of IDH1-R132H, ATRX, and p53 in 76 lower-grade gliomas and discussed its validity based on the 2016 WHO and the upcoming 2021 WHO classification. The sensitivity and specificity of anti-ATRX, p53, and IDH1-R132H IHC were 40.9%/98.1%, 78.6%/85.4%, and 90.5%/84.6%, respectively. Among 21 IDH1-mutant gliomas without 1p/19q codeletion, two gliomas (9.5%) mimicked the so-called classic for oligodendroglioma (CFO) in their morphology. Of the 42 gliomas with 1p/19q codeletion, four cases were difficult to diagnose as oligodendroglioma through morphological examination. Moreover, there were three confusing cases with ATRX mutations but with retained ATRX-IHC positivity. The lessons learned from this study are as follows: (1) ATRX-IHC and p53-IHC should be supplementary to morphological diagnosis, (2) rare IDH mutations other than IDH1 R132H should be considered, and (3) there is no complete alternative test to detect molecular features of glioblastoma under the 2021 WHO classification.

Techniques, Indications, and Outcomes in Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound Thalamotomy for Tremor

Magnetic resonance (MR)-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) is the latest minimally invasive stereotactic procedure, and thalamotomy using this novel modality has demonstrated its effectiveness and safety, especially for patients with essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson's disease (PD). In Japan, the application of MRgFUS to treat ET and PD has recently been covered by health insurance. Technically, the transducer with 1024 elements emits ultrasound beams, which are then focused on the target with a phase control, resulting in optimal ablation by thermal coagulation. The technical advantages of MRgFUS are continuous intraoperative monitoring of clinical symptoms and MR images and fine adjustment of the target by the steering function. Postoperative tremor control is compatible with other modalities, although long-term follow-up is necessary. The adverse effects are usually transient and acceptable. Prognostic factors for good tremor control include high temperature and large lesion size. A high skull density ratio is a factor to achieve high temperature and large lesioning, but it may not be necessary and sufficient for clinical outcomes. For patients with advanced symptoms such as bilateral tremor or head/neck tremor, deep brain stimulation may be recommended because of the adjustability of stimulation and the possibility of bilateral treatment. Patients have high expectations of MRgFUS because of its non-invasiveness. To perform this treatment safely and effectively, physicians need to understand the technological aspects, the physiological principles. To choose the appropriate modality, physicians also should recognize the clinical advantages and disadvantages of MRgFUS compared to other modalities.

Multitier Network Analysis Using Resting-State Functional MRI for Epilepsy Surgery

Resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) has been utilized to visualize large-scale brain networks. We evaluated the usefulness of multitier network analysis using rs-fMRI in patients with focal epilepsy. Structural and rs-fMRI data were retrospectively evaluated in 20 cases with medically refractory focal epilepsy, who subsequently underwent surgery. First, structural changes were examined using voxel-based morphometry analysis. Second, alterations in large-scale networks were evaluated using dual-regression analysis. Third, changes in cortical hubs were analyzed and the relationship between aberrant hubs and the epileptogenic zone (EZ) was evaluated. Finally, the relationship between the hubs and the default mode network (DMN) was examined using spectral dynamic causal modeling (spDCM). Dual-regression analysis revealed significant decrease in functional connectivity in several networks including DMN in patients, although no structural difference was seen between groups. Aberrant cortical hubs were observed in and around the EZ (EZ hubs) in 85% of the patients, and a strong degree of EZ hubs correlated to good seizure outcomes postoperatively. In spDCM analysis, facilitation was often seen from the EZ hub to the contralateral side, while inhibition was seen from the EZ hub to nodes of the DMN. Some cognition-related networks were impaired in patients with focal epilepsy. The EZ hub appeared in the vicinity of EZ facilitating connections to distant regions in the early phase, which may eventually generate secondary focus, while inhibiting connections to the DMN, which may cause cognitive deterioration. Our results demonstrate pathological network alterations in epilepsy and suggest that earlier surgical intervention may be more effective.

The Japan Neurosurgical Database: Statistics Update 2018 and 2019

Each year, the Japan Neurosurgical Society (JNS) reports up-to-date statistics from the Japan Neurosurgical Database regarding case volume, patient demographics, and in-hospital outcomes of the overall cohort and neurosurgical subgroup according to the major classifications of main diagnosis. We hereby report patient demographics, in-hospital mortality, length of hospital stay, purpose of admission, number of medical management, direct surgery, endovascular treatment, and radiosurgery of the patients based on the major classifications and/or main diagnosis registered in 2018 and 2019 in the overall cohort (523283 and 571143 patients, respectively) and neurosurgical subgroup (177184 and 191595 patients, respectively). The patient demographics, disease severity, proportion of purpose of admission (e.g., operation, 33.9-33.5%) and emergent admission (68.4-67.8%), and in-hospital mortality (e.g., cerebrovascular diseases, 6.3-6.5%; brain tumor, 3.1-3%; and neurotrauma, 4.3%) in the overall cohort were comparable between 2018 and 2019. In total, 207783 and 225217 neurosurgical procedures were performed in the neurosurgical subgroup in 2018 and 2019, respectively, of which endovascular treatment comprised 19.1% and 20.3%, respectively. Neurosurgical management of chronic subdural hematoma (19.4-18.9%) and cerebral aneurysm (15.4-14.8%) was most common. Notably, the proportion of management of ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack, including recombinant tissue plasminogen activator infusion and endovascular acute reperfusion therapy, increased from 7.5% in 2018 to 8.8% in 2019. The JNS statistical update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, neurosurgeons, healthcare administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on neurosurgical practice.

Reconsideration of medical treatment and care for older adults

The advance care directive is a device for deciding one's own end-of-life care by giving directions on terminal care in advance. A family discussion in the field about these documents is essential to decide the best management measures.

Bridging large-scale cortical networks: Integrative and function-specific hubs in the thalamus

The thalamus is critical for the brain's integrative hub functions; however, the localization and characterization of the different thalamic hubs remain unclear. Using a voxel-level network measure called functional connectivity overlap ratio (FCOR), we examined the thalamus' association with large-scale resting-state networks (RSNs) to elucidate its connector hub roles. Connections to the core-neurocognitive networks were localized in the anterior and medial parts, such as the anteroventral and mediodorsal nuclei areas. Regions functionally connected to the sensorimotor network were distinctively located around the lateral pulvinar nucleus but to a limited extent. Prominent connector hubs include the anteroventral, ventral lateral, and mediodorsal nuclei with functional connections to multiple RSNs. These findings suggest that the thalamus, with extensive connections to most of the RSNs, is well placed as a critical integrative functional hub and could play an important role for functional integration facilitating brain functions associated with primary processing and higher cognition.

•

Multiple large-scale cortical networks converged in the thalamus

•

Neurocognitive associated hub existed in the anterior and medial region

•

Control-processing hub localized in the intermediate thalamus

•

Sensorimotor network was located around the lateral pulvinar nucleus

Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid Attenuates Diet-Induced and Age-Related Peripheral Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Cerebral Amyloid Pathology in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

BACKGROUND

Obesity and diabetes are well-established risk factors of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the brains of patients with AD and model mice, diabetes-related factors have been implicated in the pathological changes of AD. However, the molecular mechanistic link between the peripheral metabolic state and AD pathophysiology have remained elusive. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is known as one of the major contributors to the metabolic abnormalities in obesity and diabetes. Interventions aimed at reducing ER stress have been shown to improve the systemic metabolic abnormalities, although their effects on the AD pathology have not been extensively studied.

OBJECTIVES

We examined whether interventions targeting ER stress attenuate the obesity/diabetes-induced Aβ accumulation in brains. We also aimed to determine whether ER stress that took place in the peripheral tissues or central nervous system was more important in the Aβ neuropathology. Furthermore, we explored if age-related metabolic abnormalities and Aβ accumulation could be suppressed by reducing ER stress.

METHODS

APP transgenic mice (A7-Tg), which exhibit Aβ accumulation in the brain, were used as a model of AD to analyze parameters of peripheral metabolic state, ER stress, and Aβ pathology in the brain. Intraperitoneal or intracerebroventricular administration of taurodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), a chemical chaperone, was performed in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed A7-Tg mice for ~1 month, followed by analyses at 9 months of age. Mice fed a normal diet were treated with TUDCA by drinking water for 4 months and intraperitoneally for 1 month in parallel, and analyzed at 15 months of age.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal administration of TUDCA suppressed ER stress in the peripheral tissues and ameliorated the HFD-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Concomitantly, Aβ levels in the brain were significantly reduced. In contrast, intracerebroventricular administration of TUDCA had no effect on the Aβ levels. Peripheral administration of TUDCA was also effective against the age-related obesity and insulin resistance, and markedly reduced amyloid accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions that target peripheral ER stress might be beneficial therapeutic and prevention strategies against brain Aβ pathology associated with metabolic overload and aging.

Efficacy and safety of nivolumab in Japanese patients with first recurrence of glioblastoma: an open-label, non-comparative study

BACKGROUND

An open-label, non-comparative study assessed the efficacy and safety of nivolumab in Japanese patients with first recurrence glioblastoma.

METHODS

Patients with first recurrence of histologically confirmed World Health Organization Grade IV glioma, after treatment with temozolomide and radiotherapy, received nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks until confirmed disease progression (Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology criteria) or toxicity. Primary endpoint was 1-year overall survival rate assessed by Bayesian approach. The prespecified efficacy criterion was that the Bayesian posterior probability threshold for exceeding the 1-year overall survival of bevacizumab (34.5%) from the Japanese phase 2 study (JO22506) would be 93%.

RESULTS

Of the 50 enrolled patients, 44 (88.0%) had recurrent malignant glioma (glioblastoma, gliosarcoma), and of these, 26 (59.1%) had at least one measurable lesion at baseline. The Bayesian posterior mean 1-year overall survival (90% Bayesian credible intervals) with nivolumab was 54.4% (42.27-66.21), and the Bayesian posterior probability of exceeding the threshold of the 1-year overall survival rate of bevacizumab (34.5%) was 99.7%. Median (90% confidence interval) overall and progression-free survival was 13.1 (10.4-17.7) and 1.5 (1.4-1.5) months, respectively. One partial response was observed (objective response rate 1/26 evaluable patients [3.8%]). Treatment-related adverse event rates were 14.0% for Grade 3-4 and 2.0% for Grade 5; most adverse events resolved and were manageable.

CONCLUSIONS

The 1-year overall survival with nivolumab monotherapy in Japanese patients with glioblastoma met the prespecified efficacy criterion. The safety profile of nivolumab was consistent with that observed in other tumor types.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

JapicCTI-152967.

St8sia1-deficiency in mice alters tumor environments of gliomas, leading to reduced disease severity

Ganglioside GD3/GD2 are over-expressed in various neuroectoderm-derived tumors. Previous studies indicated that GD3 is involved in the enhancement of cancer properties such as rapid growth and increased invasiveness. However, little is known about the functions of GD3/GD2 in glioma cells and glioma microenvironments. To clarify the functions of GD3/GD2 in gliomas, we used a mouse glioma model based on the RCAS/Gtv-a system. At first, we compared the gliomas size between wild-type (WT) and GD3 synthase (GD3S) knockout (KO) mice, showing a less malignant histology and slower tumor growth in GD3S-KO mice than in WT mice. Immunohistochemistry of glioma sections from WT and GD3S-KO mice revealed that reactive microglia/macrophages showed different localization patterns between the two genetic types of mice. CD68⁺ cells were more frequently stained inside glioma tissues of GD3S-KO mice, while they were stained mainly around glioma tissues in WT mice. The number of CD68⁺ cells markedly increased in tumor tissues of GD3S-KO mice at 2 weeks after injection of transfectant DF-1 cells. Furthermore, CD68⁺ cells in GD3S(-/-) glioma tissues expressed higher levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase. We observed higher expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes in primary-cultured glioma cells of WT mice than in GD3S-KO mice. DNA microarray data also revealed differential expression levels of various cytokines and chemokines in glioma tissues between WT and GD3S-KO mice. These results suggest that expression of GD3S allows glioma cells to promote polarization of microglia/macrophages towards M2-like phenotypes by modulating the expression levels of chemokines and cytokines.

Mathematical Modeling and Mutational Analysis Reveal Optimal Therapy to Prevent Malignant Transformation in Grade II IDH-Mutant Gliomas

Isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant low-grade gliomas (IDHmut-LGG) grow slowly but frequently undergo malignant transformation, which eventually leads to premature death. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments prolong survival, but can also induce genetic (or epigenetic) alterations involved in transformation. Here, we developed a mathematical model of tumor progression based on serial tumor volume data and treatment history of 276 IDHmut-LGGs classified by chromosome 1p/19q codeletion (IDH^mut/1p19q^codel and IDH^mut/1p19q^noncodel) and performed genome-wide mutational analyses, including targeted sequencing and longitudinal whole-exome sequencing data. These analyses showed that tumor mutational burden correlated positively with malignant transformation rate, and chemotherapy and radiotherapy significantly suppressed tumor growth but increased malignant transformation rate per cell by 1.8 to 2.8 times compared with before treatment. This model revealed that prompt adjuvant chemoradiotherapy prolonged malignant transformation-free survival in small IDHmut-LGGs (≤ 50 cm³). Furthermore, optimal treatment differed according to genetic alterations for large IDHmut-LGGs (> 50 cm³); adjuvant therapies delayed malignant transformation in IDH^mut/1p19q^noncodel but often accelerated it in IDH^mut/1p19q^codel. Notably, PI3K mutation was not associated with malignant transformation but increased net postoperative proliferation rate and decreased malignant transformation-free survival, prompting the need for adjuvant therapy in IDH^mut/1p19q^codel. Overall, this model uncovered therapeutic strategies that could prevent malignant transformation and, consequently, improve overall survival in patients with IDHmut-LGGs. SIGNIFICANCE: A mathematical model successfully estimates malignant transformation-free survival and reveals a link between genetic alterations and progression, identifying precision medicine approaches for optimal treatment of IDH-mutant low-grade gliomas.

Transcriptome-wide analysis of intracranial artery in patients with moyamoya disease showing upregulation of immune response, and downregulation of oxidative phosphorylation and DNA repair

OBJECTIVE

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare cerebrovascular disease characterized by progressive occlusion of the internal carotid artery and the secondary formation of collateral vessels. Patients with MMD have ischemic attacks or intracranial bleeding, but the disease pathophysiology remains unknown. In this study, the authors aimed to identify a gene expression profile specific to the intracranial artery in MMD.

METHODS

This was a single-center, prospectively sampled, retrospective cohort study. Microsamples of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) were collected from patients with MMD (n = 11) and from control patients (n = 9). Using microarray techniques, transcriptome-wide analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Comparison of MCA gene expression between patients with MMD and control patients detected 62 and 26 genes whose expression was significantly (p < 0.001 and fold change > 2) up- or downregulated, respectively, in the MCA of MMD. Gene set enrichment analysis of genes expressed in the MCA of patients with MMD revealed positive correlations with genes involved in antigen processing and presentation, the dendritic cell pathway, cytokine pathway, and interleukin-12 pathway, and negative correlations with genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and DNA repair. Microarray analysis was validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Transcriptome-wide analysis showed upregulation of genes for immune responses and downregulation of genes for DNA repair and oxidative phosphorylation within the intracranial artery of patients with MMD. These findings may represent clues to the pathophysiology of MMD.

Comparison of hemodynamic stress in healthy vessels after parent artery occlusion and flow diverter stent treatment for internal carotid artery aneurysm

OBJECTIVE

De novo aneurysms generally develop in healthy vessels after parent artery occlusion for large internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysm, possibly owing to increased hemodynamic stress in the remaining vessels. In recent years, there has been a shift toward flow diverter stent treatment. However, there is a lack of direct evidence and data that prove this change in hemodynamic stress in healthy vessels after parent artery occlusion and flow diverter stent treatment. The authors compared hemodynamic stress in healthy-side vessels before and after parent artery occlusion and flow diverter treatments.

METHODS

The authors included patients who underwent 3D cine phase-contrast MRI before and after large ICA aneurysm treatment. Spatially and temporally averaged volume flow rates and spatially averaged systolic wall shear stress (WSS) in healthy-side ICA distal to the posterior communicating artery (C1 segment according to Fisher's classification) were measured before and after parent artery occlusion and flow diverter treatments.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients were included (5 patients in the parent artery occlusion group and 12 in the flow diverter group). At 1-2 months after treatment, median volume flow rate in healthy-side ICA increased from 5.36 ml/sec to 6.28 ml/sec (total increase 117%, p = 0.04) in the parent artery occlusion group and from 4.65 ml/sec to 4.93 ml/sec (total increase 106%, p = 0.02) in the flow diverter group. In the parent artery occlusion group, median WSS in the C1 segment of the healthy-side ICA increased from 3.91 Pa to 5.61 Pa (total increase 143%, p = 0.08); however, no significant increase was observed in the flow diverter group (4.29 Pa to 4.57 Pa [total increase 107%, p = 0.21]).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperatively, volume flow rate and WSS in the C1 segment of the healthy-side ICA significantly increased in the parent artery occlusion group. Therefore, the parent artery occlusion group was more prone to de novo aneurysm than the flow diverter group.

[Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound Ablation:Techniques and Neurological Applications]

Magnetic resonance(MR)-guided focused ultrasound ablation(FUS)is a minimally invasive technique for targeted tissue thermo-ablation and is promising for neuromodulation in various neurological disorders. The effectiveness and safety of this technique have been recognized worldwide. In Japan, the applications of FUS for the treatment of essential tremors and Parkinson's disease have recently been covered under health insurance. The FUS system is composed of a phased-array transducer with 1024 elements, with a beam of ultrasound emerging from each element. The phase and amplitude of the beam are computed and controlled to focus on the target with the calculation of computed tomography(CT)profiles, resulting in optimal thermo-ablation. To utilize FUS safely and effectively, a deep understanding of the physics of this technology is necessary. Furthermore, the technique should be compared with other options including deep brain stimulation(DBS)and radiofrequency thermo-ablation. Although FUS has received attention because of minimally invasive characteristics and a possibility of procedural target refinement, DBS has some advantages on bilateral implantation, a potential of postoperative adjustment, and control of head/leg tremors. In this article, we first reviewed the physics of FUS and demonstrated the typical treatment protocols. Second, we reviewed the outcomes from the existing literature, and revealed the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure, with the evaluation of the optimal condition for FUS.

Newly Established Patient-derived Organoid Model of Intracranial Meningioma

BACKGROUND

Recent comprehensive studies have revealed several molecular alterations that are frequently found in meningiomas. However, effective treatment reagents targeting specific molecular alterations have not yet been identified because of the limited number of representative research models of meningiomas.

METHODS

We performed organoid cultures using meningioma cells and meningioma tumor tissues. Using immunohistochemistry and molecular analyses consisting of whole exome sequencing, RNA-seq, and DNA methylation analyses, we compared the histological findings and molecular profiling of organoid models with those of parental tumors. Further, using these organoid models together with a public database of meningiomas, we explored molecular alterations, which are a potent treatment target for meningioma.

RESULTS

We established 18 organoid models comprising of two malignant meningioma cells (HKBMM and IOMM-Lee), 10 benign meningiomas, four malignant meningiomas, and two solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs). The organoids exhibited consistent histological features and molecular profiles with those of the parental tumors. Using a public database, we identified that upregulated forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) was correlated with increased tumor proliferation. Overexpression of FOXM1 in benign meningioma organoids increased organoid proliferation; depletion of FOXM1 in malignant organoids decreased proliferation. Additionally, thiostrepton, a FOXM1 inhibitor combined with radiation therapy, significantly inhibited proliferation of malignant meningioma organoid models.

CONCLUSIONS

An organoid model for meningioma enabled us to elucidate the tumor biology of meningioma along with potent treatment targets for meningioma.

Lack of GD3 synthase (St8sia1) attenuates malignant properties of gliomas in genetically engineered mouse model

High expression of gangliosides GD3 and GD2 is observed in human gliomas. The functions of GD3 and GD2 in malignant properties have been reported in glioma cells in vitro, but those functions have not yet been investigated in vivo. In this study, we showed that deficiency of GD3 synthase (GD3S, St8sia1) attenuated glioma progression and clinical and pathological features in a platelet-derived growth factor B-driven murine glioma model. Lack of GD3S resulted in the prolonged lifespan of glioma-bearing mice and low-grade pathology in generated gliomas. Correspondingly, they showed reduced phosphorylation levels of Akt, Erks, and Src family kinases in glioma tissues. A DNA microarray study revealed marked alteration in the expression of various genes, particularly in MMP family genes, in GD3S-deficient gliomas. Re-expression of GD3S restored expression of MMP9 in primary-cultured glioma cells. We also identified a transcription factor, Ap2α, expressed in parallel with GD3S expression, and showed that Ap2α was critical for the induction of MMP9 by transfection of its cDNA and luciferase reporter genes, and a ChIP assay. These findings suggest that GD3S enhances the progression of gliomas by enhancement of the Ap2α-MMP9 axis. This is the first report to describe the tumor-enhancing functions of GD3S in vivo.

A new primate model of hypophyseal dysfunction

For pituitary regenerative medicine, the creation of a hypophyseal model in monkeys is necessary to conduct future preclinical studies; however, previous studies reported that hypophysectomy in monkeys is not always safe or satisfactory. This study aimed to create a hypophyseal dysfunction model in a cynomolgus monkey using a safer surgical technique and establish the protocol of pituitary hormone replacement therapy for this model. Surgical resection of the pituitary gland of a 7.8-year-old healthy adult cynomolgus male monkey weighing 5.45 kg was performed to create a hypophyseal dysfunction model for future regenerative studies. Endoscopic transoral transsphenoidal surgery was used to perform hypophysectomy under navigation support. These procedures were useful for confirming total removal of the pituitary gland without additional bone removal and preventing complications such as cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Total removal was confirmed by pathological examination and computed tomography. Hypopituitarism was verified with endocrinological examinations including stimulation tests. Postoperatively, the monkey's general condition of hypopituitarism was treated with hormone replacement therapy, resulting in long-term survival. The success of a minimally invasive and safe surgical method and long-term survival indicate the creation of a hypophyseal dysfunction model in a cynomolgus monkey; hence, this protocol can be employed in the future.

Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm with a Peculiar Angiographic Appearance: A Case Study

We describe a case of pulsatile anterior communicating artery aneurysm (A-com AN) with a peculiar angiographic appearance. An 81-year-old man was referred to the department of neurosurgery for a large A-com AN artery aneurysm, which was detected incidentally. The patient hoped not to be treated but to be followed up. After 4 months, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed the presence of a cerebral edema and hematoma around the aneurysm, and partial thrombus in the upper wall of the aneurysm was suspected. Based on these findings, the patient underwent an immediate coil embolization a day after admission. However, the portion of the neck remnant increased in size after the first procedure. Therefore, 8 months after the initial procedure, he was treated with stent coil embolization. Contrary to the first procedure, angiographic evaluation revealed an active pulsating aneurysm. Moreover, MRI revealed the presence of a partial thrombus in the upper neck segment of the aneurysm, with an intensity that changed over time. The patient underwent cautious treatment and was discharged without any symptoms. This is the first case study to reveal an A-com AN with active pulsation and the relationship between the pulsatile portion of the aneurysm and thrombosed portion by MRI.

Impact of the extent of resection on the survival of patients with grade II and III gliomas using awake brain mapping

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the extent of resection (EOR) of tumors on survival in a series of patients with grade II and III gliomas (GII/III-gliomas) who underwent awake brain mapping.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 126 patients with GII/III-gliomas in the dominant and non-dominant hemisphere who underwent awake brain surgery at the same institution between December 2012 and May 2020.

RESULTS

EOR cut-off values for improved progression-free survival (PFS) were determined by a receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis of 5-year PFS. The ROC for EOR showed a cut-off value of ≥ 85.3%. The median PFS rate of patients with GII/III-gliomas in the group with an EOR ≥ 100%, including supratotal resection (n = 47; median survival [MS], not reached), was significantly higher than that in the group with an EOR < 90% (n = 52; MS, 43.1 months; 95% CI 37.7-48.5 months; p = 0.03). In patients with diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas, the group with EOR ≥ 100%, including supratotal resection (n = 25; MS, not reached), demonstrated a significantly better PFS rate than did the group with an EOR < 100% (n = 45; MS, 35.8 months; 95% CI 19.9-51.6 months; p = 0.03). Supratotal or gross total resection was correlated with better PFS in IDH-mutant type of diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas (n = 19; MS, not reached vs. n = 35; MS, 40.6 months; 95% CI 22.3-59.0 months; p = 0.02). By contrast, supratotal or gross total resection was not associated with longer PFS rates in patients with IDH-wild type of diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates a significant association between tumor EOR and survival in patients with GII/III gliomas. The EOR cut-off value for 5-year PFS was ≥ 85.3%. It is noteworthy that supratotal or gross total resection significantly correlated with better PFS in IDH-mutant type of WHO grade II and III astrocytic tumors. In light of our finding that EOR did not correlate with PFS in patients with aggressive IDH-wild type of diffuse astrocytomas and anaplastic astrocytomas, we suggest treatments that are more intensive will be needed for the control of these tumors.

Evaluation of the Straightening Phenomenon of Various Types of Coils

The straightening phenomenon is known as a cause of catheter kickback in the late phase of coil embolization. The mechanism is supposed to be the relative shortage of the stretch resistance (SR) line, and it occurs when a coil is folded too small. Among many SR coils available, there should be a coil-specific tendency to cause this phenomenon. Here, we conducted an in-vitro experiment to know which coil is the most resistant to the straightening phenomenon. We developed an experimental model to reproduce the straightening phenomenon. Five different coils (Axium Prime, ED Coil, Hypersoft, SMART Coil, and Target 360 nano) of the same size (3 mm × 6 cm) were investigated for five times each. Resistance to the straightening phenomenon, which is represented by the insertion length at the onset of the phenomenon, was compared among coil types. The straightening phenomenon was successfully observed in all insertions. Insertion lengths were significantly different among coil types (p = 0.013). The insertion length of ED was the longest (mean ± SD, 27.0 ± 8.3 mm), which means the most resistant to the phenomenon. Axium was second (21.6 ± 7.0 mm), followed by Target (15.8 ± 6.9 mm), Hypersoft (13.8 ± 5.8 mm), and SMART (12.4 ± 4.7 mm). Difference between ED and Hypersoft (p = 0.037) and difference between ED and Smart (p = 0.018) were significant. ED coil was the one with the most resistance to the straightening phenomenon. Selecting the optimal coil is the key to avoid the phenomenon.

Urinary MicroRNA-Based Diagnostic Model for Central Nervous System Tumors Using Nanowire Scaffolds

There are no accurate mass screening methods for early detection of central nervous system (CNS) tumors. Recently, liquid biopsy has received a lot of attention for less-invasive cancer screening. Unlike other cancers, CNS tumors require efforts to find biomarkers due to the blood-brain barrier, which restricts molecular exchange between the parenchyma and blood. Additionally, because a satisfactory way to collect urinary biomarkers is lacking, urine-based liquid biopsy has not been fully investigated despite the fact that it has some advantages compared to blood or cerebrospinal fluid-based biopsy. Here, we have developed a mass-producible and sterilizable nanowire-based device that can extract urinary microRNAs efficiently. Urinary microRNAs from patients with CNS tumors (n = 119) and noncancer individuals (n = 100) were analyzed using a microarray to yield comprehensive microRNA expression profiles. To clarify the origin of urinary microRNAs of patients with CNS tumors, glioblastoma organoids were generated. Glioblastoma organoid-derived differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) included 73.4% of the DEMs in urine of patients with parental tumors but included only 3.9% of those in urine of noncancer individuals, which suggested that many CNS tumor-derived microRNAs could be identified in urine directly. We constructed the diagnostic model based on the expression of the selected microRNAs and found that it was able to differentiate patients and noncancer individuals at a sensitivity and specificity of 100 and 97%, respectively, in an independent dataset. Our findings demonstrate that urinary microRNAs extracted with the nanowire device offer a well-fitted strategy for mass screening of CNS tumors.

Development and clinical evaluation of a contactless operating interface for three-dimensional image-guided navigation for endovascular neurosurgery

Purpose

In endovascular neurosurgery, the operator often acquires three-dimensional (3D) images of the cerebral vessels. Although workstation reoperation is required in some situations during treatment, it leads to time loss because a sterile condition cannot be maintained and treatment must be temporarily interrupted. Therefore, a workstation reoperating system is required while maintaining the desired sterility.

Methods

A contactless operating interface using Kinect to control 3D images was developed via gesture recognition for endovascular neurosurgery and was applied to a 3D volume rendering technique (VRT) image reconstructed at the workstation. The left-hand movement determines the assigned functions, whereas the right-hand movement is used like a computer mouse to pan and zoom in/out. In addition to the interface, voice commands were used and assigned to digital operations, such as image view changes and mode signal changes.

Results

This system was used for the actual endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms and cerebral arteriovenous malformations. The operator and gesture were recognized without any problems. Using voice operation, it was possible to expeditiously set the VRT image back to the reference angle. Furthermore, it was possible to finely adjust gesture operations, including mouse operation, and treatment was completed while maintaining sterile conditions.

Conclusion

A contactless operating interface was developed by combining the existing workstation system with Kinect and voice recognition software, allowing surgeons to perform a series of operations, which are normally performed in a console room, while maintaining sterile conditions.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11548-021-02330-3.

Short-segment Internal Trapping for Symptomatic Thrombosed Large Fusiform Vertebral Artery Aneurysms (Bird's Nest Trapping): A Technical Note

Internal trapping with coils is an established treatment of symptomatic large non-branching thrombosed fusiform vertebral artery aneurysms (VAA). However, when perforators arise near the aneurysm neck, parent artery occlusion has a high risk of causing medullary infarction. As an alternative treatment, we performed short-segment internal trapping of the artery using n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) and coils (bird's nest trapping). Before treatment, perianeurysmal perforators are carefully detected using high-resolution three-dimensional rotational angiography (3DRA). Double microcatheters are advanced to the distal portion of the aneurysm through a balloon guiding catheter where coils are deployed without tight packing. Then, NBCA is injected into the coil mass, taking care to preserve perforators and significant branches. The same maneuver is repeated in the proximal portion of the aneurysm. Coil placement is avoided within the middle of the aneurysm; however, if necessary, only a small number of coils are placed to prevent worsening of mass effect. Two quinquagenarian males presented with a large thrombosed fusiform VAA that caused symptoms due to mass effect. In each case, perforators arose from the parent artery and short-segment internal trapping with NBCA and coils was performed. Symptoms improved after treatment and follow-up imaging confirmed aneurysm shrinkage with no long-time recurrence. In symptomatic large fusiform VAAs where the distance from the lesion to important perforators is extremely short, internal trapping using a combination of NBCA and coils can be more useful than conventional internal trapping.

Effects of insular resection on interactions between cardiac interoception and emotion recognition

The insular cortex is considered an important region for feeling emotions through interoception. Most studies that report the role of the insula in integrating interoception and emotion have used neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI); however, there are limited neuropsychological studies. The effects of insular lesions on emotion and interoception have not been suitably investigated. In this study, we examined the role of the insular cortex in cardiac interoception and recognizing emotions from facial expressions by comparing them pre- and post-operatively in patients with glial tumors or brain metastases associated with the insular lobe. Although no significant difference in interoceptive accuracy was observed between the two phases, there were significant associations between the changes in interoceptive accuracy and sensitivity to expressions of anger and happiness. An increased error rate in the heartbeat counting task in the post-operation phase was associated with a decreased accuracy in recognizing anger and happiness. Since most patients had left insula lesions, generalizability of the findings to patients with right lesions is a future subject. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the change in interoception and emotion after insular resection in humans. The study results indicate that removal of the insula affects the recognition of emotions such as anger and happiness through interoceptive processing.

Outcomes and Issues of 'Drip and Go' as an Inter-Hospital Cooperation System in Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke

Objective

Mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has become popular in recent years. Our affiliated institutes without neuro-endovascular specialists call our department to come to assist and perform thrombectomy (Drip and Go). In this study, the effectiveness of this inter-hospital cooperative system was evaluated.

Methods

Between January 2016 and December 2018, "Drip and Go" was performed in a total of 29 patients (20 males, average age of 75 years) from four hospitals located within a 1-hour drive, that frequently called for AIS assistance. The background and outcomes of such cases were then retrospectively collected and evaluated.

Results

The median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and diffusion-weighed image-Alberta Stroke Programme Early CT Score (DWI-ASPECTS) were 19 and 7, respectively. Gro in puncture was performed in 27 patients (93%) within 6 h of onset. Good reperfusion (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction [TICI] 2b/3) was obtained in 24 patients (82%) with only one patient exhibiting hemorrhagic complication. A total of 12 patients (41%) had a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0-3 after 90 days or at the time of discharge. Univariate analysis identified a DWI-ASPECTS of 7 or higher as the only significant factor associated with a good neurological prognosis (P <0.05). Neurological prognosis was the most favorable at the furthest hospital where patients had a good DWI-ASPECTS.

Conclusion

By employing a 1-hour arrival time window and proper patient selection, the "Drip and Go" inter-hospital cooperative system can be an alternative approach for covering areas where no neuro-endovascular specialists are available for AIS.

Intraoperative seizure outcome of levetiracetam combined with perampanel therapy in patients with glioma undergoing awake brain surgery

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of levetiracetam (LEV) combined with perampanel (PER) therapy for intraoperative seizure treatment to determine whether a combination of LEV and PER can aid in the prevention of intraoperative intractable seizures during awake surgery.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective cohort study in 78 consecutive patients with glioma who underwent awake surgery using intraoperative direct electrical stimulation mapping. To prevent intraoperative seizures, 50 patients were treated with the antiepileptic drug LEV only (LEV group) from January 2017 to January 2019, while the remaining 28 patients were treated with LEV plus PER (LEV + PER group) between March 2019 and January 2020. LEV (1000-3000 mg) and/or PER (2-4 mg) were administered before the surgery.

RESULTS

Preoperative seizures with International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) class II-VI occurred in 44% of the patients in the LEV group and in 35.7% of patients in the LEV + PER group, with no significant difference between groups (p = 0.319). Total intraoperative seizures occurred in 18 patients (36.0%) in the LEV therapy group and in 2 patients (7.1%) in the LEV + PER group (p = 0.009). Of these, there were no patients (0%) with intractable seizures in the LEV + PER group. Regarding factors that influence intraoperative seizures in glioma patients during awake brain surgery, multivariate logistic regression models revealed that the occurrence of intraoperative seizures was significantly related to the involvement of motor-related regions (positive vs negative, HR 6.98, 95% CI 1.71-28.56, p = 0.007), preoperative seizure (ILAE class II-VI vs ILAE class I, HR 4.44, 95% CI 1.22-16.11, p = 0.024), and LEV + PER group (positive vs negative, HR 0.07, 95% CI 0.01-0.44, p = 0.005). Treatment-related adverse effects were rare and mild, including sleepiness, tiredness, and dizziness in both treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that LEV + PER therapy is significantly associated with a lower risk of intraoperative seizures compared with LEV therapy alone in patients with glioma during awake brain mapping. These findings will help neurosurgeons conduct safe and reliable awake surgeries and reduce the rate of intraoperative intractable seizures during such procedures.

LGG-56. INFANTILE HEMISPHERIC BRAIN TUMOR WITH A GOPC-ROS1 FUSION GENE: A CASE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

Infantile hemispheric gliomas with ROS1 fusion genes have been reported to have a relatively poor prognosis. Treatment using a ROS1 inhibitor is expected to generate less toxicity and effective for brain tumors with ROS1 fusion genes. CASE PRESENTATION: A one-month-old female presented with a seizure, and a large hypervascular mass in the right hemisphere was found on MRI. The tumor was not biopsied over concerns of an increased risk for bleeding. The mass was clinically diagnosed as an atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor. She received neoadjuvant chemotherapy using the modified EU-RHAB protocol. The tumor gradually decreased to 70% of its original size with a reduction of vascularity. A near-total resection (> 95%) was performed at eight months of age. Pathological examination revealed the unusual histology with immunostaining positive for INI-1, GFAP, synaptophysin, neurofilament, and slightly positive for NeuN. MIB-1 labeling index was 6%. The pathological diagnosis was a glioneuronal tumor with desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma-like features, suggestive of low grade. She received adjuvant chemotherapy with carboplatin and vincristine, which is the standard treatment for low-grade gliomas, and achieved a partial response. The GOPC-ROS1 fusion gene was detected in the tumor by FoundationOne^Ⓡ CDx.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy may effectively reduce the size of an infant’s brain tumor which is initially considered to be inoperable. A gene profile should be performed as soon as possible in order to direct appropriate management.

Expression of programmed cell death ligand-1 by immune cells in the microenvironment is a favorable prognostic factor for primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the central nervous system

Primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the central nervous system (PCNS-DLBCL) is rare. Thirty-nine patients consecutively diagnosed as having PCNS-DLBCL were analyzed to highlight the prognostic value of the expression of programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) by neoplastic cells and immune cells in the microenvironment. They were positive for CD20 in all (100%), CD5 in two (5%), CD10 in nine (23%), BCL-2 in 27 (69%), BCL-6 in 34 (87%), and MUM-1 in 37 (95%). Only one case was positive for neoplastic PD-L1, with an unexpectedly long clinical course of 92 months. The remaining 38 cases were further divided into three groups based on the percentage of PD-L1⁺ cells among microenvironmental immune cells. Cutoffs of < 5%, 5-40%, and ≥ 40% successfully stratified mean prognoses with three-year overall survival (OS) of 21%, 63%, and 100% (P = 0.009), respectively. Progression-free survival (PFS) and OS were different between the groups with and without methotrexate (MTX)-containing chemotherapy (P = 0.007 and P < 0.001, respectively). Multivariate analysis identified three independent adverse factors of OS: PD-L1 negativity (< 5%) on microenvironmental immune cells (P = 0.027), deep structure involvement (P = 0.034), and performance status (PS) 2-4 (P = 0.009). The study showed that PD-L1 expression on immune cells in the microenvironment was associated with prognosis among patients with PCNS-DLBCL.

Assessing the Risk of Intracranial Aneurysm Rupture Using Morphological and Hemodynamic Biomarkers Evaluated from Magnetic Resonance Fluid Dynamics and Computational Fluid Dynamics

PURPOSE

Evaluate in vivo hemodynamic and morphological biomarkers of intracranial aneurysms, using magnetic resonance fluid dynamics (MRFD) and MR-based patient specific computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in order to assess the risk of rupture.

METHODS

Forty-eight intracranial aneurysms (10 ruptured, 38 unruptured) were scrutinized for six morphological and 10 hemodynamic biomarkers. Morphological biomarkers were calculated based on 3D time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (3D TOF MRA) in MRFD analysis. Hemodynamic biomarkers were assessed using both MRFD and CFD analyses. MRFD was performed using 3D TOF MRA and 3D cine phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (3D cine PC MRI). CFD was performed utilizing patient specific inflow-outflow boundary conditions derived from 3D cine PC MRI. Univariate analysis was carried out to identify statistically significant biomarkers for aneurysm rupture and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed for the significant biomarkers. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictive biomarkers.

RESULTS

Morphological biomarker analysis revealed that aneurysm size [P = 0.021], volume [P = 0.035] and size ratio [P = 0.039] were statistically significantly different between the two groups. In hemodynamic biomarker analysis, MRFD results indicated that ruptured aneurysms had higher oscillatory shear index (OSI) [OSI.max, P = 0.037] and higher relative residence time (RRT) [RRT.ave, P = 0.035] compared with unruptured aneurysms. Correspondingly CFD analysis demonstrated significant differences for both average and maximum OSI [OSI.ave, P = 0.008; OSI.max, P = 0.01] and maximum RRT [RRT.max, P = 0.045]. ROC analysis revealed AUC values greater than 0.7 for all significant biomarkers. Aneurysm volume [AUC, 0.718; 95% CI, 0.491-0.946] and average OSI obtained from CFD [AUC, 0.774; 95% CI, 0.586-0.961] were retained in the respective logistic regression models.

CONCLUSION

Both morphological and hemodynamic biomarkers have significant influence on intracranial aneurysm rupture. Aneurysm size, volume, size ratio, OSI and RRT could be potential biomarkers to assess aneurysm rupture risk.

ML-07 High expression of PD-L1 on tumor-associated macrophage is a predictive factor for favorable prognosis in PCNSL

PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression on tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells in primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the expressions of PD-L1 and PD-L2 in surgical specimens from needle biopsies and craniotomies to compare tumor tissue with surrounding tumor tissue (peritumoral tissue) and analyzed the correlation between expression of PD-L1/PD-L2 and survival in patients with PCNSL. We retrospectively analyzed the cases of 70 patients histologically diagnosed with PCNSL (diffuse large B-cell lymphoma). Immunohistochemistry for CD20, CD68, PD-L1, and PD-L2 was performed. In cases with specimens taken by craniotomy, the percentages of PD-L1- and PD-L2-positive macrophages were evaluated in both tumor and peritumoral tissue. The Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard model were used for survival analysis. The tumor cells did not express very much PD-L1 and PD-L2, but macrophages expressed PD-L1 and PD-L2 in most of the patients. The median percentage of PD-L2-positive cells was significantly higher among peritumoral macrophages (32.5%; 95%CI: 0–94.6) than intratumoral macrophages (27.5%; 95%CI: 0–81.1, p=0.0014). There was a significant correlation between the percentages of PD-L2-positive intratumoral macrophages and PD-L2-positive peritumoral macrophages (p=0.0429), with very low coefficient correlation (ρ=0.098535). PD-L1 expression on macrophages was significantly associated with biological factors (intratumoral macrophages: better KPS, p=0.0008; better MSKCC score, p=0.0103; peritumoral macrophages: low proportion of LDH elevation, p=0.0064) and longer OS (for intratumoral macrophages: high PD-L1=60 months, 95%CI=30–132.6; low PD-L1=24 months, 95%CI=11–48; p=0.032; for peritumoral macrophages: high PD-L1=60 months, 95%CI=30.7-NR; low PD-L1=14 months, 95%CI=3–26). PD-L1 expression on peritumoral macrophages was strongly predictive of a favorable outcome (HR=0.30, 95%CI=0.12–0.77, p=0.0129). Macrophages in intratumoral and peritumoral tissue expressed PD-L1 and PD-L2 at a higher rate than tumor cells. PD-L1 expression, especially on peritumoral macrophages, seems to be an important prognostic factor in PCNSL.

TB-03 Newly Established Meningioma Organoid Model Elucidated an Important Role of FOXM1 in Meningioma Progression

Meningioma is the most frequently occurring intracranial neoplasms in adults. Tumor removal surgery and radiotherapy were the widely accepted standard treatment for meningioma. Most meningioma cases were cured by extended total removal. However, some tumors develop in locations less amenable to resection, resulting in tumor recurrence after incomplete tumor removal followed by radiotherapy. Although several comprehensive studies have revealed frequently found molecular alterations of meningiomas, effective treatment reagents targeting specific molecular alterations have not been identified yet because of limited number of representative research models such as tumor cell lines or animal models of meningiomas. Recently developed 3D culture technologies have led to the development of novel cancer models, termed organoid models, due to their quite high efficiency of establishment. In this study, we established primary organoid culture methods using malignant meningioma cell lines (e.g. HKBMM and IOMM-Lee) and patient-derived meningioma tissues. Using this novel method, we have been able to establish six organoid models (four WHO grade I meningiomas, one WHO grade III one and one solitary fibrous tumor (SFT)) using tumor tissues derived from six consecutive patients with 100% success rate. Histological analyses, whole exome sequencing and copy number analyses revealed that these organoids exhibited consistent histological features and molecular profiling with those of parental tumors. Using public database, we identified upregulated FOXM1 was correlated with increased tumor proliferation. Over-expression of FOXM1 in benign meningioma organoids increased organoid proliferation, while depletion of FOXM1 in malignant ones decreased their proliferation. We revealed that novel organoid model for meningioma enable to shed light on the tumor biology of meningioma.

QOLP-07. HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE AND SYMPTOM BURDEN IN PATIENTS WITH NEWLY DIAGNOSED GLIOBLASTOMA TREATED WITH BEVACIZUMAB BEYOND PROGRESSION: A PROSPECTIVE TRIAL

BACKGROUND

In BIOMARK trial, patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma were treated with standard chemoradiotherapy combined with first-line bevacizumab; a subset of patients continued bevacizumab beyond progression (BBP). Neurocognitive function (NCF), symptom burden, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were examined as secondary endpoints.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In the primary protocol, newly diagnosed glioblastoma patients aged 20-75 received standard 6-week radiotherapy combined with temozolomide and bevacizumab followed by 4-week cycles of temozolomide plus bevacizumab, and then 2-3-week cycles of bevacizumab monotherapy. Upon recurrence, patients were subjected to the secondary protocol with 2-3-week cycles of bevacizumab monotherapy with or without other chemotherapeutic agents. NCF tests (Hopkins verbal learning test-revised, trail making test, and controlled oral word association), EORTC QLQ-C30/BN20, and MDASI-BT were completed by the patients. Time to deterioration (TTD) was defined as the time from randomization until a pre-specified change from baseline without further improvement or death. The Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test were used to assess TTD for each subscale of the above tests.

RESULTS

Overall, 94 patients were enrolled in the study. Analyses were based on the full analysis set cohort (N=90), excluding non-glioblastoma diagnosis by central review. The median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 25.0 and 14.9 months, respectively. Baseline HRQoL and symptom burden subscales (emotional functioning, symptom severity score, affective factor, and focal factor) were significantly associated with PFS. The median TTD was 8.7, 7.5, 8.1 months for global health status/QoL, symptom severity score, interference score, respectively. Among patients who experienced recurrence, disease progression was apparently preceded by deterioration in terms of symptom burden.

CONCLUSIONS

Detailed analysis of HRQoL and symptom burden may aid care of glioblastoma patients throughout the disease trajectory.