Invasiveness in pituitary adenomas has been defined and investigated from multiple perspectives, with varying results when its predictive value is considered. A systematic literature review, following PRISMA guidelines, was performed, searching PubMed and Scopus databases with terms that included molecular markers, histological, radiological, anatomical and surgical data on invasiveness of pituitary adenomas. The results showed that differing views are still present for anatomical aspects of the sellar region that are relevant to the concept of invasiveness; radiological and histological diagnoses are still limited, but might improve in the future, especially if they are related to surgical findings, which have become more accurate thanks to the introduction of the endoscope. The aim is to achieve a correct distinction between truly invasive pituitary adenomas from those that, in contrast, present with extension in the parasellar area through natural pathways. At present, diagnosis of invasiveness should be based on a comprehensive analysis of radiological, intra-operative and histological findings.

Stroke is a fatal morbidity that needs emergency medical admission and immediate medical attention. COVID-19 ischemic brain damage is closely associated with common neurological symptoms, which are extremely difficult to treat medically, and risk factors. We performed literature research about COVID-19 and ischemia in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Scopus for this current narrative review. We discovered parallel manifestations of SARS-CoV-19 infection and brain ischemia risk factors. In published papers, we discovered a similar but complex pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and stroke pathology. A patient with other systemic co-morbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, or any respiratory disease, has a fatal combination in intensive care management when infected with SARS-CoV-19. Furthermore, due to their shared risk factors, COVID-19 and stroke are a lethal combination for medical management to treat. In this review, we discuss shared pathophysiology, adjuvant risk factors, challenges, and advancements in stroke-associated COVID-19 therapeutics.

In this paper, we discuss how the clustering analysis technique can be applied to analyze functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) time-series data in the context of glioblastoma (GBM), a highly heterogeneous brain tumor. The precise characterization of GBM is challenging and requires advanced analytical approaches. We have synthesized the existing literature to provide an overview of how clustering algorithms can help identify unique patterns within the dynamics of GBM. Our review shows that the clustering of fMRI time series has great potential for improving the differentiation between various subtypes of GBM, which is pivotal for developing personalized therapeutic strategies. Moreover, this method proves to be effective in capturing temporal changes occurring in GBM, enhancing the monitoring of disease progression and response to treatment. By thoroughly examining and consolidating the current research, this paper contributes to the understanding of how clustering techniques applied to fMRI data can refine the characterization of GBM. This article emphasizes the importance of incorporating cutting-edge data analysis techniques into neuroimaging and neuro-oncology research. By providing a detailed perspective, this approach may guide future investigations and boost the development of tailored therapeutic strategies for GBM.

Objectives Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is an undesirable complication of transsphenoidal skull base surgery. The issue of the most appropriate sellar dura repair remains unresolved, although a multilayer technique using autologous fascia lata is widely used. We describe the novel application of a homologous banked fascia lata graft as an alternative to an autologous one in the reconstruction of sellar dura defects in endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery. Design The clinical records of patients who underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery at our department from June 2012, when we started using homologous fascia lata, up to July 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. The data concerning diagnosis, reconstruction technique, and surgical outcome were analyzed. Results We treated 16 patients successfully with banked fascia lata. Twelve patients presented intraoperative CSF leakage, and four patients were treated for postoperative rhinoliquorrhea. Banked fascia lata was used in a single-to-multilayer technique, depending on the anatomical features of the defect and of the sellar floor. No complications or failures in sella reconstruction occurred. Conclusion A banked fascia lata graft proved reliable and safe in providing an effective sellar dura reconstruction. Used in a multilayer strategy, it should be considered a viable alternative to an autologous fascia lata graft.