Extensive optic pathway glioma in a teenager

Background: Optic pathway gliomas are rare, but the most common primary tumours of the optic nerve. They affect children more than adults. Management of these patients requires an individualized and multidisciplinary approach. Case report: A clinical course and ophthalmological, electrophysiological, neuroradiological, neurosurgical and paediatric-oncological management of an extensive optic pathway glioma in a teenager with unspecific visual problems are presented. Conclusions: Although most frequently low grade astrocytomas, optic pathway glio, follow a highly variable and unpredictable clinical course. Therefore, their optimal management is still controversial. In the last decade, chemotherapy has become the first-line treatment modality, especially in inoperable and/or extended gliomas.