[A low-grade (WHO grade II) astrocytic neoplasm. It is characterized by a high degree of cellular differentiation, slow growth, and diffuse infiltration of neighboring brain structures. These lesions typically affect young adults and have an intrinsic tendency for malignant progression to anaplastic astrocytoma and, ultimately, glioblastoma. According to the prevailing cells type, three major variants can be distinguished: Fibrillary Astrocytoma, Gemistocytic Astrocytoma, and Protoplasmic Astrocytoma. (Adapted from WHO) ( NCI )]
UMLS (NCI) C0280785