However, no treatment for this condition is available for all children. While the specific diagnosis of this tumor may differ, it is important to discuss it with your child’s doctor as early diagnosis is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some of the most common treatments for this brain tumor:
Surgery is the main treatment for astrocytoma in childhood. In cases of grade I tumors, surgery is often performed alone. The goal of surgery is to perform a gross total resection. However, this is not always possible due to tumor location or nearby brain structures. Chemotherapy may be used to delay radiation therapy in young children. A combination of chemotherapy and surgery may be appropriate depending on the patient’s age and severity of the tumor.
Treatment for astrocytomas in childhood is based on the type of astrocytoma, its location and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. For low-grade astrocytomas, the prognosis is good and complete excision may be possible. In cases of high-grade astrocytomas, radiation therapy may be necessary. Because radiation can have severe side effects, treatment for this condition is not appropriate for young children.
While most childhood astrocytomas are low-grade and may recur after initial presentation, it is very important to follow up as early as possible. Generally, recurrent disease is seen at the primary tumor location, but it may also occur in other areas of the brain and the spinal leptomeninges. Surveillance imaging can detect early recurrence. If recurrence occurs, the treatment may require targeted therapies, such as chemotherapy.
Research is ongoing. Some new treatments for this tumor have been developed and are now in use by patients. Researchers are working on new treatments to help children with astrocytomas. These treatments may have side effects, and the most promising ones may be available in clinical trials. The PDQ Cancer Information Summary for Astrocytomas in Childhood is a comprehensive resource for parents and physicians. It offers information about the causes and treatment of this tumor in children.
Despite the high mortality rate, the survival rate of children with Astrocytomas is remarkably high. While there is no cure for this cancer, it can be treated successfully. In some cases, complete surgical resection is an option. It may result in blindness in the affected eye, but this treatment is not recommended for most children with this condition. If it’s in the eye, however, it may affect the function of the eyes and the whole brain.
