A 45-year-old woman undergoes resection of a dural-based meningeal mass. Histology shows whorled architecture and psammoma bodies. Which genetic alteration is most commonly associated with this tumor?
- A 1p/19q co-deletion
- B IDH1 R132H mutation
- C NF2 gene mutation ✓
- D BRAF V600E mutation
Correct answer: C. NF2 gene mutation
Explanation
Meningiomas frequently harbor inactivating mutations in the NF2 gene on chromosome 22q, leading to loss of merlin. IDH1 mutations and 1p/19q co-deletion define diffuse gliomas, while BRAF V600E is seen in some gliomas and craniopharyngiomas. The presence of whorls and psammoma bodies is classic for meningioma, making NF2 the key molecular link.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.