childhood brain stem glioma

Childhood Brain Stem Glioma: A Rare Condition

Childhood brain stem glioma, also known as brainstem glioma, is a rare condition in which abnormal cells develop in the tissues of the brain stem (the part of the brain connected to the spinal cord) [10]. This type of tumor can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) [7].

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of childhood brain stem glioma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include headaches, seizures, nausea and vomiting, irritability, lethargy and drowsiness, and personality and mental activity changes [9]. A neurological exam and scans, such as MRI or CT scans, are used to diagnose this condition [15].

Incidence and Age

Brain stem gliomas make up approximately 10-20% of all central nervous system tumors in children [5]. These tumors typically occur in children less than 10 years of age [5]. Peak incidence for these tumors occurs around age 6 to 9 years [12].

Types of Tumors

Gliomas are thought to arise from neural stem and progenitor cells that are present in the brain and spinal cord [13]. Brain stem gliomas can be classified on the basis of histological and molecular features, and they represent the most common type of central nervous system (CNS) tumor in children [13].

Treatment Options

Treatment for childhood brain stem glioma may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. In some cases, a tissue biopsy might be done while the child is under anesthesia to confirm the diagnosis [14].

Common Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Brain Stem Glioma

Childhood brain stem glioma, a type of brain cancer that affects the brain stem, can exhibit various signs and symptoms in children. These symptoms can vary depending on the location, size, and growth rate of the tumor, as well as the child's age and stage of development.

Common Symptoms:

• Vision problems or abnormal eye movements: Children with brain stem glioma may experience difficulty moving their eyes, double vision (diplopia), or other visual disturbances.
• Weakness of one side of the face: Weakness or numbness on one side of the face can be a symptom of brain stem glioma.
• Numbness or weakness of the extremities: Children may experience numbness or weakness in their arms and legs, which can affect their balance and coordination.
• Difficulty with balance: Ataxia (clumsiness or wobbliness) is a common symptom of brain stem glioma.
• Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches can be an early sign of brain stem glioma.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some children may experience nausea and vomiting due to the tumor's location and growth rate.

Other Possible Symptoms:

• Trouble with eye movement (eyes turn aching inward)
• Vision problems
• Weakness and ataxia
• Failure to thrive

It is essential for parents or caregivers to be aware of these symptoms and consult with their child's doctors if they suspect any unusual behavior or physical changes. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of successful management of childhood brain stem glioma.

References:

[1] Symptoms of brainstem glioma (context 6) [2] Common signs and symptoms of pediatric brain tumors (context 5) [3] Brainstem gliomas are growths that begin in the glial cells of the brain stem. (context 15)

Diagnostic Tests for Childhood Brain Stem Glioma

Childhood brain stem glioma can be diagnosed using various tests and procedures. Here are some of the diagnostic tests used to diagnose this condition:

• MRI scans: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans are considered the best way to look for tumors in the brain and spinal cord, including those in the brain stem. They produce highly detailed pictures of the brain and soft tissue structures [5][6].
• Neurological exams: Neurological exams involve checking the nerves and brain function to diagnose childhood brain stem glioma [7].
• CT scans: Computed Tomography (CT) scans may also be ordered, as they are quicker and more readily available than MRI scans. However, MRI scans are generally preferred for diagnosing tumors in the brain and spinal cord [4].
• Biopsy: A biopsy may be done to diagnose certain types of brain stem glioma, although this is not always necessary [8].

It's worth noting that many brainstem tumors are not biopsied, and a diagnosis is usually made based on the tumor's appearance on an MRI scan [3]. The diagnosis of childhood brain stem glioma requires a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, which can identify the specific area in the brain stem where the tumor arises from [6].

These diagnostic tests help doctors to accurately diagnose childhood brain stem glioma and develop an effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Childhood Brain Stem Glioma

Childhood brain stem glioma, a type of cancer that affects the brain stem, can be challenging to treat due to its location and aggressive nature. However, various treatment options are available to manage this condition.

• Surgery: Surgery may be an option in some cases, especially if the tumor is localized and can be completely removed. However, surgery is not always possible or recommended due to the brain stem's delicate location.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is a common treatment for childhood brain stem glioma. It involves using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses medications to destroy or slow down the growth of cancer cells. For childhood brain stem glioma, chemotherapy may be used as a first-line treatment or in conjunction with radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy Options

The chemotherapy drugs commonly used to treat childhood brain stem glioma include:

• Temozolomide (Temodal)
• Lomustine (CeeNU, CCNU)

These medications can be administered orally or intravenously and may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

Treatment Approach

The treatment approach for childhood brain stem glioma depends on the tumor's location, size, and aggressiveness. In some cases, a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be recommended to manage the condition. The goal of treatment is to control the growth of the tumor, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality of life.

References

• [1] NF1: Children with NF1 and brain stem gliomas may have a better prognosis than other patients who have intrinsic lesions.[104,105]
• [2] May 10, 2024 — To treat a glioma, chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein. When given this way, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach ...
• [6] The chemotherapy drugs that are usually used first to treat brain stem gliomas include: temozolomide (Temodal) lomustine (CeeNU, CCNU)
• [8] Chemotherapy: We may use chemotherapy, a drug treatment that aims to destroy or shrink cancer cells, either before or after treatment.
• [9] Aug 8, 2024 — Diffuse brain stem gliomas typically are treated with radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is sometimes used in combination with radiation therapy.

Note: The above information is based on the provided sources and may not be comprehensive or up-to-date. It's essential to consult a medical professional for personalized advice and treatment options.