Brain tumors in children can be life-threatening. They can cause serious pain, and in some cases, they can spread to other parts of the central nervous system. Treatment options for these tumors can vary depending on the child’s age, size and location. Surgical removal is often the best option for some tumors. A team of experienced doctors and neurosurgeons can offer effective treatment.
While there is no single definitive cause for brain tumors, certain genetic conditions increase the risk of developing these diseases. Children who have had radiation therapy to their head may be at a higher risk of developing these types of tumors. These treatments can interfere with normal growth, and cause new ones to form.
Pediatric brain tumors usually develop in the central nervous system, which is a network of nerve cells that control the body’s vital functions. In general, these tumors have little or no symptoms, but if left untreated, they can cause serious complications. If you’re concerned about your child’s symptoms, get them evaluated. This will help you to decide if they need to be seen by a doctor.
Typical signs of CNS tumors include increased pressure inside the skull. An MRI scan can determine if the abnormality is causing these symptoms. Other tests might be performed, too, depending on the doctor’s recommendation.
Most pediatric brain tumors are benign, but they can also be malignant. Malignant tumors are often a result of genetic changes or chromosome rearrangements. Changing genes can affect the way they work and can lead to uncontrolled cell growth. Some of the common symptoms are drowsiness, headaches, seizures, and mental status changes.
If your child is experiencing a sudden change in his or her mental or physical condition, he or she should be checked out immediately. The doctor might also order an MRI to see if the tumor is growing. You may also be told to take your child to the hospital for a spinal tap. When this is done, the spinal fluid is examined under a microscope to check for the presence of tumors.
A medulloblastoma is the most common type of tumor in children. It can occur in any part of the brain, but it usually grows in the cerebellum, the middle part of the brain. Medulloblastomas are dangerous because they can spread to other parts of the body. However, they can be treated and can lead to a good prognosis if they are caught early.
Another type of tumor in children is a craniopharyngioma. These tumors are located near the nerves from the eyes to the brain. Craniopharyngiomas are difficult to remove, due to their sensitive location in the brain. Their symptoms can include poor growth, short stature, and vision problems.
Other unusual types of brain tumors in children are teratoma, pineoblastomas, and esthesioneuroblastoma. All of these tumors have different symptoms, but the main signs are related to their location.
If your child has a brain tumor, treatment will usually involve surgery. In addition, chemotherapy or radiation might be necessary. Chemotherapy is typically more aggressive than surgery, but it can be difficult for the child. Radiation can interfere with brain development, and chemotherapy has a number of side effects.
