Pediatric Brain Tumor
What is Pediatric Brain Tumor?
Pediatric brain tumors are abnormal growths of tissue found inside a child’s skull. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can occur in various parts of the brain, affecting its function. They are the second most common cancer in children, after leukemia.
Types of Pediatric Brain Tumors
- Gliomas
- Astrocytomas (including pilocytic astrocytoma and glioblastoma)
- Ependymomas
- Oligodendrogliomas
- Medulloblastomas: Fast-growing tumors that start in the lower back part of the brain
- Craniopharyngiomas: Slow-growing tumors near the pituitary gland
- Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumors (PNETs): Develop from primitive nerve cells
- Germ Cell Tumors: Rare tumors that can develop in specific regions of the brain
- Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumors (AT/RT): Rare, aggressive tumors usually occurring in very young children
Symptoms can vary based on the tumor’s size, type, and location but may include:
- Persistent headaches, especially in the morning
- Unexplained nausea or vomiting
- Vision problems (e.g., double vision, blurred vision)
- Balance and coordination issues
- Seizures
- Behavior or personality changes
- Difficulty with schoolwork or decline in academic performance
- Abnormal head tilt
- Increased head circumference in infants
- Unexplained fatigue or changes in energy levels
- Problems with speec
The exact causes of most pediatric brain tumors are unknown. However, some factors that may increase risk include:
- Genetic conditions (e.g., neurofibromatosis, Li-Fraumeni syndrome)
- Exposure to high doses of radiation
- Family history of certain cancers
It’s important to note that in most cases, brain tumors occur sporadically without any clear cause.
While there’s no known way to prevent most pediatric brain tumors, some general recommendations include:
- Avoiding unnecessary exposure to radiation
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Ensuring children wear protective headgear during activities with a risk of head injury
- Regular check-ups with a pediatrician to monitor overall health and development
Treatment for pediatric brain tumors is highly individualized and depends on factors such as the tumor type, size, location, and the child’s overall health. Common treatment modalities include:
- Surgery: Often the first line of treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible
- Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy beams to destroy tumor cells
- Chemotherapy: Drugs used to kill cancer cells, given orally, intravenously, or directly into the cerebrospinal fluid
- Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific molecules involved in tumor growth and progression
- Immunotherapy: Harnesses the body’s immune system to fight tumor cells
- Stem Cell Transplant: Sometimes used in conjunction with high-dose chemotherapy
A multidisciplinary team of specialists will work together to create the best treatment plan for each child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brain tumors are the second most common cancer in children, accounting for about 26% of all childhood cancers.
Many pediatric brain tumors can be successfully treated, especially when caught early. The prognosis depends on various factors, including the tumor type and location.
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for many pediatric brain tumors, but the approach depends on the individual case.
Long-term effects can vary and may include cognitive changes, hormonal imbalances, or physical disabilities. Regular follow-up care is essential to manage potential late effects.
While most pediatric brain tumors are not hereditary, some genetic conditions can increase the risk. Genetic counseling may be recommended in certain cases.
Ongoing research is exploring areas like targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and precision medicine approaches tailored to individual tumors.
Provide emotional support, maintain routines when possible, work closely with the medical team, and consider joining support groups for families facing similar challenges.