Is vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 ( VEGFR-2 ) signalling activity in paediatric pilocytic astrocytoma restricted to tumour endothelial cells?
Phosphorylated VEGFR-2 is detected on endothelial cells in paediatric pilocytic astrocytoma. Furthermore, endothelial cells are the main source of VEGFR1-3 mRNA expression. This suggests a crucial role for VEGF/VEGFR-induced angiogenesis in the progression and maintenance of these tumours.
Referral of selected dizzy patients to a multidisciplinary centre provides a revised diagnosis or treatment recommendation for a majority of patients.