Congenital glioblastoma

Abstract

We describe the case a 2-day-old female with congenital glioblastoma. Total resection was followed by adjuvant and high dose chemotherapy, as indicated by the current Italian infant protocol. The child is alive and well 18 months after diagnosis. A review of 67 selected congenital brain tumors showed the mortality rate was 82%. Even though the majority of patients had glioblastoma, only 5/67 had received adjuvant therapy. To ensure optimal outcomes, we recommend total or subtotal surgical resection, followed by adjuvant and high dose chemotherapy. Given the lack specific protocols for congenital brain tumors an international consensus seems to be needed, starting with congenital glioblastoma.