Beyond Glial: A Retrospective Histopathological Review Of Non-Glial CNS And PNS Tumors

Background: Non-glial tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) constitute a diverse group of neoplasms with distinct clinicopathological features and prognostic implications. Accurate histopathological classification is essential for management and therapeutic decisions.

Aim: To analyze the spectrum, clinicopathological features, and distribution of non-glial CNS and PNS tumors with emphasis on histological subtypes and their correlation with clinical and radiological findings.

Methods: A retrospective study of 30 cases of non-glial CNS and PNS tumors diagnosed in the Department of Pathology, MGM Medical College & Hospital, between January 2023 and May 2025. Clinical history, radiological findings, and histopathological features were reviewed. Tumors were classified and graded according to the WHO Classification of CNS Tumors, 2021.

Results: Among the 30 cases, meningiomas were most frequent (18 cases, 60%), followed by schwannomas (8 cases, 26.7%), neurofibromas (3 cases, 10%), and metastasis (1 case, 3.3%). The majority were benign tumors (26 cases, 86.7%), while 4 cases (13.3%) were malignant, including atypical meningiomas (Grade II) and metastasis. Patients ranged from 23–75 years (mean 49.2 years), with a male-to-female ratio of CNS and PNS tumor (calculated from dataset). Headache was the most common presenting complaint.

Conclusion: Non-glial CNS and PNS tumors display significant histological diversity, with meningiomas and schwannomas comprising the majority. Histopathology remains crucial for definitive diagnosis and grading, directly influencing treatment and prognosis.