Astrocytomas in children are a rare and treatable form of brain tumor. The child may not need any additional treatment, but will be monitored closely for symptoms and changes in the tumor. Treatment options for childhood astrocytomas can range from surgery to observation. This article discusses the various types of treatment options for astrocytomas. If your child has astrocytoma, it is important to seek a second opinion from a doctor.
Treatment options for astrocytomas in childhood are limited, but can vary from patient to patient. Initial treatment may be surgery. The tumor may be benign or malignant. Other treatment options include radiation therapy and chemotherapy. For pediatric astrocytomas, the treatment options will depend on the type and stage of the tumor. Generally, a child with this type of tumor can expect a full recovery. In some cases, doctors may also recommend radiation treatment or surgical removal.
A physical examination is the first step to diagnosing an astrocytoma in childhood. A doctor will look for general signs of health and abnormalities, and will perform tests to diagnose it. A neurological exam will determine the extent of tumor spread and how well the patient is functioning. The child may have a recurring or progressive astrocytoma. Often, treatment options for astrocytomas in childhood can include surgery or other treatment methods.
Low-grade astrocytomas in children are usually treated surgically. If the tumor has spread to the other parts of the brain, surgery may be impossible. However, many children survive with glial lesions of the brain. A MRI is often performed in the first few days following surgery. The scans can help doctors determine the extent of the tumor and the best course of treatment. The treatment options for astrocytomas in childhood are dependent on its location.
The PDQ service is a nonprofit, independent service of the National Cancer Institute. The NCI conducts its own research, and the PDQ Editorial Boards review the literature independently. The PDQ cancer information summary is not a policy statement or an NCI policy. It provides current information regarding astrocytomas in childhood and how it should be treated. Although this is not a substitute for formal guidelines, it is a useful resource for clinicians.
A child may have a glioma in the cerebrum or cerebellum. While astrocytomas in childhood can occur in any part of the brain, they are typically found in one or two areas of the brain. Some childhood astrocytomas can be treated surgically. A PDQ does not have formal guidelines, but it contains current information regarding treatment of astrocytomas in children.
Astrocytomas in children can occur anywhere in the brain. A high-grade astrocytoma is most likely to occur above the tentorium of the cerebrum. If it spreads outside of the CNS, it can spread to other parts of the body. The patient’s condition will be monitored closely during treatment. The child will need to be monitored for any side effects. The child will have to undergo a surgery for astrocytoma in childhood.
