Types & Subtypes
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA)
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma is a usually lower-grade glioma of young people, often carrying a BRAF V600E mutation that may allow targeted therapy.
In short: Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA)
- It is a usually lower-grade glioma of children and young adults.
- It often arises in the temporal lobe and causes seizures.
- It frequently carries a BRAF V600E mutation.
- That mutation may allow targeted therapy.
What it is
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is a glioma that usually occurs in children and young adults and is typically lower-grade (grade 2, or grade 3 if more aggressive). It often arises in the temporal lobe, frequently causes seizures, and commonly carries a BRAF V600E mutation.
Understanding Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA)
PXA is often a more favorable glioma, especially the grade 2 form, and is frequently associated with seizures. Because it tends to be relatively circumscribed and superficial (near the brain surface), it can often be substantially removed by surgery, which is the main treatment and can also help control seizures. A large portion of PXAs carry the BRAF V600E mutation, which is practically important: BRAF-targeted therapy may be an option, particularly for tumors that recur or progress, or that cannot be fully removed. Higher-grade (grade 3) PXA behaves more aggressively. Recognizing PXA and testing for BRAF status can guide treatment. Understanding pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma clarifies a usually favorable glioma of young people that may be targetable.
Why it matters
Understanding pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma helps patients and families see a usually favorable glioma of young people — often removable by surgery and frequently carrying a BRAF V600E mutation that may allow targeted therapy.
Common questions
What is pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma?
A usually lower-grade glioma of children and young adults.
What does it often cause?
Seizures, often arising in the temporal lobe.
What mutation does it often carry?
BRAF V600E, which may allow targeted therapy.
Bottom line
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma is a usually lower-grade glioma of young people, often causing seizures and frequently carrying a targetable BRAF V600E mutation.
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