# Molecular subtypes, prognostic factors, and treatment optimization in pediatric medulloblastoma: a real-world study from China

## TL;DR

This study from China identifies molecular and clinical factors that affect outcomes in children with medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer, and highlights the importance of personalized treatment strategies.

## Contribution

The study provides real-world insights into molecular subtypes and treatment outcomes in Chinese pediatric medulloblastoma patients.

## Key findings

- WNT subtype had the best prognosis, while Group 3 had the worst.
- TP53 mutations and MYCN amplification were significant risk factors for recurrence and mortality.
- No treatment-related fatalities were observed, suggesting the safety of intensified chemotherapy.

## Abstract

Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor, yet systematic studies on molecular characteristics and treatment efficacy in Chinese pediatric MB remain scarce. This study evaluates recurrence and mortality risk factors and the feasibility of intensified chemotherapy.

A retrospective analysis of 381 MB patients (WNT: 63, SHH: 106, Group 3: 27, Group 4: 185) was conducted. Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated survival rates, and Cox regression identified independent risk factors for recurrence and mortality.

With a median follow-up of 4.8 years, 5-year PFS and OS were 69.9% ± 2.4% and 80.6% ± 2.1%, respectively. WNT-MB had the best prognosis, while Group 3-MB had the worst. Independent recurrence risk factors included high-risk status (HR=2.931, p<0.001), TP53 mutation (HR=1.873, p<0.001), MYCN amplification (HR=1.52, p=0.001), chromosome 12p amplification, and 9q deletion. Mortality was associated with LC/A pathology (HR=1.573, p=0.007), TP53 mutation (HR=2.049, p<0.001), and high-risk status (HR=3.966, p<0.001). TP53 mutations influenced WNT-MB recurrence, and Group 3-MB showed a high recurrence risk even without MYC amplification or metastasis. No treatment-related fatalities were observed.

This study identified key clinical and molecular risk factors associated with recurrence and mortality in pediatric medulloblastoma. The findings underscore the prognostic relevance of TP53 mutations, MYCN amplification, and specific chromosomal alterations, particularly in non-metastatic subgroups. These insights may help guide risk-adapted and personalized treatment strategies in future studies.