Skull base invasive low-grade meningiomas, a distinct genetic subgroup: A microarray gene expression profile analysis

Introduction Meningioma is the most common adult primary brain tumor originating from meningeal coverings of the brain and spinal cord. Commonly, World Health Organization (WHO) grade-I meningiomas are slowly growing and surgically curative, some present with clinically aggressive behavior, invading the skull base bone and soft tissues by extending into the extracranial spaces.

Methods To detect the genetic background of the Skull Base Invasive Low-grade Meningioma (SBILM), we conducted a comprehensive analysis of gene expression was conducted on 32 meningioma samples.

Results The cluster analysis of the gene expression profile demonstrated a distinctive clustering pattern of the SBILM. Based on the clinical behavior and the microarray findings, they might be a distinct subgroup of meningiomas.

Conclusion Further studies on characterization of genes specifically expressed by the SBILM could lead to the development of diagnostic tools, differentiating it from other WHO grade-I meningiomas and assist in the appropriate management and follow-up strategy, and open the door for development of pharmacological therapies.