Pilocytic astrocytoma is a typically benign and slow-growing brain tumor that primarily affects children and young adults. This condition arises from astrocytes—the star-shaped cells that support nerve cells in the brain—and is most commonly found in the cerebellum, optic pathways, and hypothalamus region. Patients with pilocytic astrocytomas often present with symptoms related to increased intracranial pressure, such as headaches, nausea, and balance problems. However, life-threatening presentations such as brainstem compression and hydrocephalus can occur, which warrants urgent intervention.Due to their generally favorable prognosis and localized nature, pilocytic astrocytomas are often treated successfully with surgical resection, sometimes supplemented by additional therapies depending on the tumor’s location and extent. The mainstay treatment is surgical excision aimed at achieving gross total resection, which can often be curative. The preferred diagnostic tool is brain magnetic resonance imaging with and without contrast. A head computed tomography scan may be indicated in urgent cases, particularly if the patient is neurologically unstable. This activity reviews the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, and treatment options for patients with pilocytic astrocytoma. This activity also covers the latest advancements in surgical techniques, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, along with emerging research on molecular and genetic markers. In addition, this activity highlights the role of the interprofessional healthcare team in enhancing multidisciplinary approaches to the clinical care of affected individuals. Furthermore, this activity provides essential tools and knowledge to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and overall care of patients with pilocytic astrocytoma.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/27219
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: IPCE Credits: 1.5 hours
AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.5 hours
Nursing: 1.5 hours
Pharmacy: 1.5 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABA - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABA)
ABIM - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
ABS - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABP - 1.5 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment (ABP) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: Adolescent Medicine, Ambulatory/Outpatient, Critical Care Medicine, General Operative Anesthesia, General Pediatrics, Hospital Medicine, Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Neuro Anesthesia, Neurocritical Care, Neuropathology (incl. Neuromuscular), Pediatric Anesthesia, Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Surgical Pathology