Cytogenetic and molecular genetic abnormalities in primitive neuroectodermal tumors of the central nervous system

Primitive neuroectodermal tumors constitute a large class of pediatric brai n tumors. Despite notable recent advances in improving treatment and surviv al, the pathogenesis and the molecular genetic bases of these malignancies remain poorly understood. Combined cytogenetic and molecular genetic approa ches have been used to identify genomic alterations in different histologic tumor types. Translation of these advances from basic science to clinical application is currently underway. Goat for,he future include the developme nt of more efficacious treatment strategies while simultaneously lessening toxicity. The most important cytogenetic and molecular genetic abnormalitie s documented to date together with their potential,prognostic significance are reviewed.