Molecular Profiling for CNS Tumours

Abstract

The advances in molecular pathology have enhanced our understanding of CNS tumours. New elements were introduced to refine CNS tumour classification and improve the 2016 World Health Organisation (WHO) classification, which was published in the 2021 WHO classification. The Consortium to Inform Molecular and Practical Approaches to CNS Tumour Taxonomy-Not Official WHO (cIMPACT-NOW), which was formed in late 2016 by a group of neuro-oncology experts, was the group that was responsible for providing practical recommendations. The aim is to improve the diagnosis and classification of CNS tumours, in advance of the publication of a new WHO Classification of CNS tumours. Therefore, the latest WHO Classification of CNS tumours formally incorporated molecular characteristics into the definition of many tumours, with several published cIMPACT-NOW guidelines. Recommendations include molecular profiling, diagnostic principles and nomenclature. This not only reflects a paradigm shift in their classification but also affects the clinical management of patients with these tumours. The aim is to provide the best possible care for our patients with CNS tumours. In reality, a multidisciplinary team's involvement warrants the success of this effort, anticipating the great challenges to overcome.