Etymed
oligodendroglioma
Definition
A diffuse, slow-growing primary brain tumor arising from oligodendrocytes, the glial cells responsible for myelination in the central nervous system. Characteristically associated with 1p/19q co-deletion and IDH mutations.
Clinical context
A 42-year-old male presents with new-onset seizures. MRI brain shows a T2-hyperintense, non-enhancing mass in the right frontal lobe with calcifications on CT. He undergoes maximal safe resection. Histopathology reveals a diffuse glioma with round, uniform nuclei and perinuclear halos ("fried egg" appearance) on H&E. Molecular testing confirms IDH1 R132H mutation and 1p/19q co-deletion, establishing the diagnosis of oligodendroglioma, CNS WHO grade 2. He receives adjuvant PCV chemotherapy following radiation.
Mnemonic
OLIGO (few) + DENDRO (tree branches) + GLIA (glue cells) + OMA (tumor) = tumor of the few-branched glue cells. Oligodendrocytes have fewer processes than astrocytes. Remember: "Fried egg" cells with calcifications, 1p/19q co-deletion.
These morphemes also unlock…
- olig/o — few; scanty
- dendr/o — tree (referring to branching processes)
- gli/o — glue (referring to neuroglia)
- -oma — tumor; mass