Pseudopalisading tumor cells on brain biopsy suggest which type of tumor?

Pseudopalisading tumor cells are a distinctive histological feature associated with glioblastoma multiforme, a highly aggressive form of brain tumor. In the case of glioblastoma, the tumor cells form a pattern where they align themselves around areas of necrosis or dead tissue, creating a palisade-like structure. This characteristic appearance is due to the tumor's aggressive growth and the resultant hypoxic environment, which leads to cell death and the formation of these unique arrangements.

Glioblastoma multiforme is known for its heterogeneous cell types and extensive necrosis, which contribute to the formation of pseudopalisading necrosis. This finding on pathology is a key diagnostic criterion that helps differentiate glioblastoma from other brain tumors. Other types of tumors, such as astrocystoma, meningioma, and oligodendroglioma, do not typically exhibit this specific histological feature. Therefore, the presence of pseudopalisading tumor cells strongly supports the diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme.