Medical Health Encyclopedia

Surgery primary treatment. Radiotherapy if removal is incomplete.

Brain Stem Gliomas

About 60% to 70% of brain stem tumors are diffuse, which are likely to spread and have a rapid onset of symptoms. Focal tumors tend to be solid or cyst-like; they generally develop gradually. Occurs in both children and young adults.

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Radiation is usual treatment. Tumors in this area are rarely removed surgically since the nerve tissue in this area is responsible for vital life functions. Slow-growing tumors may only require watchful waiting. Trials using advanced radiotherapy techniques, gene therapy, immunotherapy, and other experimental drugs.

Medulloblastomas

Occurs in cerebellum (the lower portion of the brain), brainstem, and spinal cord. Usually fast-growing aggressive cells. Most common brain tumors in children and young people, causing between 15% and 20% of brain tumors. With aggressive therapy, in children 5-year survival rates between 60% and 80%. In patients who survive for two years after diagnosis, long-term survival rate is nearly 80%.

Treatment is usually surgery and reduced-dose radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. A 2005 study found that a combination chemotherapy regimen may replace radiation for very young children.

Optic Tract Gliomas

Spread along the optic nerve. Usually slow growing. Most often in children under 10. Children with these tumors often have vision and hormonal problems.

Usually surgery if one eye is involved. Possible chemotherapy or radiation.