Risk in children versus adults

What it is

Gliomas differ in important ways between children and adults — in the types that occur, their underlying biology, and their risk factors. This is why the modern classification separates pediatric-type from adult-type gliomas, reflecting that they are biologically distinct.

Understanding Risk in children versus adults

In children, the most common glioma is the often-curable pilocytic astrocytoma, and pediatric gliomas are frequently driven by changes in the MAPK pathway (such as BRAF changes) or, for high-grade tumors, by distinct alterations (such as H3 mutations). In adults, the common diffuse gliomas are driven by IDH status and other features. Because of these differences, a tumor that looks similar in a child and an adult may be biologically different and require a different approach — which is why the 2021 classification created separate pediatric and adult categories. Risk factors also differ somewhat: inherited syndromes play a relatively larger role in pediatric gliomas, while older age is a major factor for adult glioblastoma. Recognizing these differences ensures that children and adults are diagnosed and treated according to the correct biology. Understanding glioma risk in children versus adults clarifies why these are treated as distinct.

Why it matters

Understanding glioma differences in children versus adults helps families see why pediatric and adult gliomas are classified and treated separately — they are biologically distinct, with different types, drivers, and considerations.