MYB/MYBL1::QKI fusion-positive diffuse glioma

The MYB/MYBL1::QKI fusion induces the protooncogene, MYB, and deletes the tumor suppressor gene, QKI. MYB/MYBL1::QKI rearrangement was previously reported only in angiocentric glioma (AG) and diffuse low-grade glioma. This report compares 2 tumors containing the MYB/MYBL1::QKI fusion: a diffuse pediatric-type high-grade glioma (DPedHGG) in an 11-year-old boy and an AG in a 46-year-old woman. We used immunohistochemistry, next-generation sequencing, and methylation profiling to characterize each tumor and compare our findings to the literature on AG and tumors with the MYB/MYBL1::QKI rearrangement. Both tumors were astrocytic with angiocentric patterns. The MYB::QKI fusion-positive DPedHGG, which recurred once, was accompanied by TP53 mutation and amplification of CDK6 and KRAS, suggesting malignant transformation secondary to additional genetic aberrations. The second case was the adult AG with MYBL1::QKI fusion, which mimicked ependymoma based on histopathology and its dot- and ring-like epithelial membrane antigen positivity. Combined with a literature review, our results suggest that MYB/MYBL1 alterations are not limited to low-grade gliomas, including AG. AG is most common in the cerebra of children and adolescents but exceptional cases occur in adults and the acquisition of additional genetic mutations may contribute to high-grade glioma. These cases further demonstrate that molecular characteristics, morphologic features, and clinical context are essential for diagnosis.

Automated summary

The MYB/MYBL1::QKI fusion activates the oncogene MYB and deletes the tumor suppressor gene QKI. Previously, this fusion was only reported in angiocentric glioma (AG) and diffuse low-grade glioma. This study compares two tumors with the MYB/MYBL1::QKI fusion: a diffuse pediatric-type high-grade glioma (DPedHGG) in an 11-year-old boy and an AG in a 46-year-old woman. Characterization using immunohistochemistry, next-generation sequencing, and methylation profiling reveals their molecular characteristics and supports the presence of MYB/MYBL1 alterations in higher-grade gliomas.