Tissue is the Issue: Biomarkers of Prognosis and Classification in Adult Gliomas.

OBJECTIVE

To explain several biomarkers used in primary adult brain tumor diagnosis and the methodologies for their application.

DATA SOURCES

Peer-reviewed literature.

CONCLUSION

In the past few years, several biomarkers have been touted as providing reliable and objective assays of histogenesis, prognosis, and therapeutic sensitivity. A number of these markers have failed the test of time and rigorous practice applications. More recently, assays with diagnostic applications have been reported and validated from multiple laboratories using large numbers of patients in routine clinical practices.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

This article provides a reference for biomarker tests for gliomas. There is a greater need for nurses to understand the translational interface between basic science and clinical medicine to determine the applications of these biomarkers for the best interests of their patients.