More aggressive tumors may need more aggressive treatment. Doctors also consider the patient’s age to decide on the best treatment. In very young children, radiation therapy isn’t an option because of the severe side effects it can cause. Therefore, the optimal treatment depends on the type and location of the tumor.
The primary goal of treating childhood high-grade astrocytomas is to cure the child. This is not always possible, however. The disease can return years after it is first treated, and can occur in the same brain region or in another part of the central nervous system. The risk of recurrence is higher for diffuse and fibrillary types of tumors. Different types of treatment are available for different stages of the disease, and the outcome depends on the specific type of tumor.
The prognosis of an astrocytoma in childhood depends on the type and location of the tumor. It is rare to have a complete cure for a childhood astrocytoma. While it is possible for some pediatric patients to recover, there is a high risk of recurrence and progression. Thus, a child’s prognosis will depend on the type and location of the tumor.
Diagnosing and treating childhood astrocytomas can be challenging and require careful planning. The most effective treatment depends on the symptoms and the location of the astrocytoma. It is best to consult with a doctor who has experience with treating pediatric patients. The treatment for astrocytomas in childhood may vary from one type to another. There are many options for a treatment of this disease and these will be discussed with you.
Symptoms of astrocytoma in childhood include a morning headache, loss of balance, weakness in one side of the body, or an increase in the size of the head. Symptoms of astrocytomas in childhood may vary from child to child. The treatment of this disease depends on the type and location of the astrocytoma. Once the diagnosis has been made, the child must undergo follow-up care. The patient will need to have regular checkups to determine whether the tumor has returned or if it has progressed.
Children with an astrocytoma are usually diagnosed when they are younger than 8 years of age. The type of treatment for a child with astrocytoma varies depending on the location and the type of the astrocytoma. Depending on the location, surgery for astrocytomas in childhood is usually necessary to remove the tumor. If the tumor is removed, the child may undergo regular follow-ups.
Surgical resection is the primary treatment for astrocytomas in childhood. The patient must undergo a thorough neurosurgical examination. The tumor location is important. The optic chiasm and hypothalamus are particularly challenging. In children, biopsies are not recommended for low-grade astrocytomas. The NF1 gene may be associated with the tumor. A multifocal astrocytoma may be more resistant to surgery.
