Glioma

Glial tumors comprise a diverse group of central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms that vary in behavior depending on the cell origin, presence of specific genetic mutations, site of occurrence, morphology, and pattern of spread. Neuroimaging is fundamental for the preliminary noninvasive diagnosis, therapy planning, assessment of treatment response, and complications in these tumors. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the core pillar of glioma imaging. Complementary imaging modalities, such as positron emission tomography (PET), may also help differential diagnosis and early detection of tumor relapse. Advanced MRI techniques used in glioma imaging have a pioneering role in neuroradiology. This chapter focuses on cerebral glial tumors in adults, their imaging characteristics at baseline and treatment follow-up, and their impact on patient management. Interdisciplinary interactions with neurosurgery, radiotherapy, and neuropathology are also discussed in this chapter.