A histopathological profile of central nervous system tumors – A retrospective study at a single tertiary care center of Assam

Abstract

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are a complex heterogenous group of neoplasms and with high morbidity and mortality. Very little is known about the epidemiology of CNS tumors in our population in North-Eastern region of India.

Aims and Objectives: The aim of our study is to provide current insight into the pattern of CNS tumors in our region and to categorize and grade them according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective histopathological study conducted in the Department of Pathology, Assam Medical College, India, covering a period of 2 years from March 2021 to February 2023. During this period, a total of 39 neurosurgical biopsies were retrieved from departmental archives. Basic demographic data (age and sex) clinical presenting symptoms were obtained and the hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections in all cases were reviewed by the authors and diagnosis was confirmed applying the WHO 2016 classification. The primary CNS tumors are graded from grade I to IV.

Results: The study found a slight female predominance (59%) and a peak incidence in the 41–50 age groups. Overall, tumors of neuroepithelial tissue (51.2%) were the most common entity followed by tumors of meninges (48.7%), with diffuse astrocytoma and meningothelial meningioma and being the leading subtypes. Clinical presentations included headaches, vomiting, and seizures.

Conclusion: Although neuro-imaging techniques are available, histopathology remains cornerstone of diagnosis. The study highlights the growing importance of molecular diagnostics and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for accurate classification and treatment planning.