Central Nervous System Pathology: Exercises – NUS Pathweb

Here are some gross and micro pictures for you to practise your diagnostic and observational skills on. Click on the accordions to view sample descriptions.

This a coronal slice of the brain, showing an ill-defined mass in the right cerebral hemisphere just deep to the cortex. The mass is irregular and exhibits a friable cut surface, suggestive of areas of necrosis.

Microscopy would show areas of pseudopalisading necrosis (circled below).

Diagnosis: Glioblastoma multiforme

Note:

-The appearance suggests a high grade or aggressive tumour. In the brain, for primary tumours, possibilities include high grade glial tumours such as GBM).

-Metastases are more likely to be multiple, though occasionally they can be single.

4. A 72 year old man presented at the emergency department with confusion which progressed to loss of consciousness. He is a chronic hypertensive. This is a section from his brain. Try describing the microscopic features, and what is the diagnosis?