A narrative review of what the neuropathologist needs to tell the clinician in neuro-oncology practice concerning WHO CNS5

Abstract

The fifth edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System (WHO CNS5) was released in late 2021. The adoption of new tumor nomenclature, grading criteria, terminology, tumor types, and novel diagnostic approaches, including methylation profiling, will benefit the precise diagnosis of CNS tumors, facilitate optimal patient care and improve diagnostic reproducibility with higher clinical relevance. However, the gap between rapid updates in tumor classification and the clinical management of patients requires frequent and up-to-date communications between neuropathologists and clinicians. This review aims to provide an overview of WHO CNS5, focused on the changes that are most pertinent to the clinical care of patients. Forming concrete ideas for neuropathologists that are necessary to express to clinicians, for a better understanding of how the patient may benefit from the new classification.