Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategy in Anaplastic (Malignant) Meningioma, CNS WHO Grade 3

Simple Summary Only 1% of all meningioma diagnosis is classified as malignant (anaplastic) meningioma. Due to their rarity, clinical management of these tumors presents several gaps. In this review, we investigate current knowledge of anaplastic meningioma focusing on their pathological and radiological diagnosis, molecular assessment, and loco-regional and systemic management. Despite the current marginal role of systemic therapy, it is possible that the increasing knowledge of molecular altered pathways of the disease will lead to the development of novel effective systemic treatments. Background: Meningiomas are the most common primary central nervous system malignancies accounting for 36% of all intracranial tumors. However, only 1% of meningioma is classified as malignant (anaplastic) meningioma. Due to their rarity, clinical management of these tumors presents several gaps. Methods: We carried out a narrative review aimed to investigate current knowledge of anaplastic meningioma focusing on their pathological and radiological diagnosis, molecular assessment, and loco-regional and systemic management. Results: The most frequent genetic alteration occurring in meningioma is the inactivation in the neurofibromatosis 2 genes (merlin). The accumulation of copy number losses, including 1p, 6p/q, 10q, 14q, and 18p/q, and less frequently 2p/q, 3p, 4p/q, 7p, 8p/q, and 9p, compatible with instability, is restricted to NF2 mutated meningioma. Surgery and different RT approaches represent the milestone of grade 3 meningioma management, while there is a marginal role of systemic therapy. Conclusions: Anaplastic meningiomas are rare tumors, and diagnosis should be suspected and confirmed by trained radiologists and pathologists. Despite the current marginal role of systemic therapy, it is possible that the increasing knowledge of molecular altered pathways of the disease will lead to the development of novel effective systemic treatments.

Automated summary

Only 1% of meningioma cases are classified as malignant (anaplastic) meningioma. Due to their rarity, there are gaps in the clinical management of these tumors. This review investigates the current knowledge of anaplastic meningioma in terms of pathological and radiological diagnosis, molecular assessment, and treatment approaches. Surgery and radiation therapy play a crucial role in managing grade 3 meningioma, while systemic therapy is not widely used. It is anticipated that the increasing understanding of molecular pathways will lead to the development of more effective systemic treatments.