Abstract
BACKGROUND
Histone mutations in the K27M gene were first described in 2014, and incorporated into the WHO CNS tumour classification system in 2016. They are typically associated with diffuse midline gliomas (DMG). Presenting symptoms vary greatly, with some experiencing significant delay in diagnosis. Median survival is only 9-12 months for these patients. Biopsy samples are small, and in some due to location, not performed. Although data is predominately based on the paediatric population, DMGs are seen in both adolescence and adults. In this multi-site retrospective study, we describe 11 adult patients with K27M DMG gliomas across two tertiary Neuro-Oncology services in Sydney, Australia. To the authors’ knowledge we present the largest known collection of adult K27M cases in the Asia-Pacific region with correlation of treatment, clinicopathologic and radiologic features with outcomes.
METHODS
The glioma databases of Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) between January 2009 and March 2020 were interrogated to identify patients. Selection criteria included patients aged ≥ 18 years who presented with a DMG, had undergone biopsy, and had confirmed K27M via next generation sequencing. Clinicopathologic, radiologic and treatment outcomes were extracted for correlation.
RESULTS
Eleven patients fitting the selection criteria were identified and reported. The median age at diagnosis was 30 years and 4 were female. Five presented with hydrocephalus, the most common presenting symptoms were headaches and nausea and/or vomiting (n= 4 and n= 2 respectively). The median progression-free survival was 13 months (4-31 months) and the median overall survival was 23 months (4-59 months).
CONCLUSION
This case series reports the outcomes of older patients with K27M. The clinical course demonstrated suggests a divergence from paediatric biology. Ongoing studies are required to further characterise the histopathological and clinical differences of these tumours in older patients.