In these cases, the doctor will discuss the alternative treatments that are available. In some cases, steroids may be prescribed. These are used to help reduce the swelling in the brain. Children with neurofibromatosis type 1 may develop more than one low-grade tumor.
Treatment for astrocytomas in childhood is based on the age of the child. However, it is important to note that the treatment options for this condition depend on the age and the location of the tumor. If your child is suffering from symptoms of this disease, it is vital that you seek early treatment. A doctor can help determine which treatment options are best suited for your child. You can also seek the advice of a pediatric neurologist to get the right diagnosis for your child.
In a population-based study of astrocytomas in children, the authors eliminated referral bias and the possibility of a particular surgeon’s experience. They reported 179 cases in a 42-year period. The median age at diagnosis was 8.9 years, with over half of the cases affecting the cerebellum. The peak of astrocytomas was between 1965 and 1970. Therefore, treatment for an astrocytoma in childhood should be individualized, based on the age of the child and the location of the tumor.
The treatment for an astrocytoma in childhood is based on the type of tumor, its location, and its spread. A child with a high-grade astrocytoma should undergo aggressive treatment. While the astrocytoma in childhood is relatively rare, it represents 15 percent of all astrocytomas in this age group. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible, because the astrocytoma in childhood can progress rapidly.
In some cases, astrocytomas in childhood will not progress. There is no treatment for the disease, as there is no cure. In most cases, the only way to treat an astrocytoma is through surgery. Sometimes, the tumor will spread to other parts of the body. If this occurs, repeated tests are necessary to determine the size of the tumor and how much of the tumor remains after the surgery. The astrocytoma in childhood should be treated early to avoid complications.
Some children may have a recurrent astrocytoma. This cancer may return in the same location as the first tumor or in other parts of the body. In most cases, a child with an astrocytoma will need to undergo surgery to remove the tumor. There are various treatment options available for children with astrocytomas. In some cases, there are no treatment options, but the patient can undergo surgery to remove the tumor.
After surgery, the patient’s condition will be monitored. The pediatrician will determine the exact type of treatment. Surgical removal of the tumor will be performed only if it is in the eye. A complete resection of the tumor will not affect the eye. If the recurrence is not present, the child will receive treatment for the tumor. The patient will be evaluated and a doctor will be assigned.