Advanced Imaging and Computational Techniques for the Diagnostic and Prognostic Assessment of Malignant Gliomas

Cancer J. 2021 Sep-Oct;27(5):344-352. doi: 10.1097/PPO.0000000000000545.

Abstract

Advanced imaging techniques provide a powerful tool to assess the intratumoral and intertumoral heterogeneity of gliomas. Advances in the molecular understanding of glioma subgroups may allow improved diagnostic assessment combining imaging and molecular tumor features, with enhanced prognostic utility and implications for patient treatment. In this article, a comprehensive overview of the physiologic basis for conventional and advanced imaging techniques is presented, and clinical applications before and after treatment are discussed. An introduction to the principles of radiomics and the advanced integration of imaging, clinical outcomes, and genomic data highlights the future potential for this field of research to better stratify and select patients for standard as well as investigational therapies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Brain Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Glioma* / diagnostic imaging
  • Glioma* / genetics
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Prognosis