More aggressive tumors may be harder to remove, and doctors will discuss other treatment options. While surgery is the most common treatment for childhood astrocytomas, it is not always possible. If the tumour is located near the brain stem or optic chiasm, biopsies may not be possible. Also, surgery for these tumours can result in severe side effects.
A population-based study of astrocytomas in childhood has removed the potential for referral bias and the inherent limitations of series based on experience at a single medical center or surgeon. The study included 179 cases of childhood astrocytomas over a 42-year period. The median age of diagnosis was 8.9 years. Over half of the tumors were located in the cerebellum. The incidence of astrocytomas in children reached its peak between the years 1965 and 1970.
If your child has an NF1 gene, they are at risk for a visual pathway glioma. This type of astrocytoma usually doesn’t cause symptoms and will not require treatment. However, there are certain symptoms of astrocytomas that vary depending on where the tumor is located and how old the child is. For instance, a child with a mass in the brain may have increased energy levels or weight loss.
The location of the tumor is the primary factor in determining the prognosis of astrocytomas in childhood. The child’s age and overall health can affect the symptoms of the disease. It is important to consult a doctor as early as possible if you suspect your child has a tumor. While symptoms may not develop until a diagnosis is made, treatment options may include surgery or chemotherapy. The treatment for astrocytomas in childhood is very specific and depends on the severity of the symptoms.
Treatment options for astrocytomas in childhood will depend on the location and size of the tumor. The child’s age and stage will also impact the type of symptoms. An initial consultation will determine the best treatment options for your child. Once the tumor has been diagnosed, your child will be treated. Follow-up imaging may be required. In addition to a doctor’s examination, your child may undergo a diagnostic procedure called a biopsy.
When diagnosing astrocytomas in childhood, it is important to understand the risks associated with each type. Symptoms will vary with the age of the child. The most common astrocytomas in childhood are those of the cerebrum and the cerebellum. Although the causes are unknown, many of these tumors can affect the child’s growth and health. As a result, you should consider getting your child tested for these types of astrocytomas in childhood to prevent future complications.
The age of a child will determine where the tumor is located and whether it affects the child’s development. The treatment options for these tumours will depend on the location of the tumor and its symptoms. For low-grade astrocytomas, surgery may be the only option. For high-grade astrocytomas, radiation therapy and intensive chemotherapy are the most common treatments. They will require intensive care and treatment of the affected brain tissue.
