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Brain tumor - children Health Article
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Reviewer Info: Rita Nanda, M.D., Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 10/31/2006 |
Definition
A primary brain tumor is a group (mass) of abnormal cells that start in the brain. This article focuses on primary brain tumors in children. See also:
Alternative Names
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The cause of primary brain tumors is unknown. Primary brain tumors may be: Brain tumors are classified depending on the exact site of the tumor, the type of tissue involved, and whether or not it is cancerous. Brain tumors can directly destroy brain cells. They may also indirectly damage cells by pushing on other parts of the brain. This leads to swelling and increased pressure within the skull. Tumors may occur at any age, but many specific tumors are more common at a specific age. However, most brain tumors are rare in the first year of life. Some of the most common childhood brain tumors include: SPECIFIC TUMOR TYPES Astrocytomas are usually non-cancerous, slow-growing cysts. They most commonly develop in children ages 5 to 8. The main treatment is surgery to remove the tumor. Brainstem gliomas occur almost exclusively in children. The average age of development is about 6 years old. The tumor may grow very large before triggering symptoms. Surgery is usually not possible because of the tumor's location in the brain. Radiation and chemotherapy are used to shrink the tumor and prolong life. The 5-year survival rate is low. Ependymomas make up about 8-10% of pediatric brain tumors. The tumors are located in tiny passageways (ventricles) in the brain, and block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Medulloblastomas are the most common type of childhood brain cancer. They occur more often in boys than girls, usually around age 5. Most medulloblastomas occur before the age of 10. Surgery alone does not cure this type of cancer. Chemotherapy and radiation are often used in combination with surgery. See also: Craniopharyngioma
Symptoms
The specific symptoms vary, but may include: Infants may have the following signs and symptoms: Additional symptoms that may be associated with primary brain tumors:
Signs and tests
The health care provider will perform a physical exam. The child may have a positive Babinski's reflex. The physical exam can often identify signs and symptoms that are specific to the location of the tumor. However, some tumors may not cause symptoms until they are very large and cause a rapid decline in the child's mental function. The following tests may be used to detect a brain tumor and identify its location:
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