Comprehensive List of Pediatric Brain Tumors
Comprehensive List of Pediatric Brain Tumors Pediatric brain tumors are a diverse group of neoplasms that originate within the brain or surrounding structures in children. Although relatively rare compared to adult brain tumors, they are the most common solid tumors in children and a leading cause of cancer-related death in the pediatric population. Understanding the various types of pediatric brain tumors is essential for early diagnosis, effective treatment, and improved outcomes.
The most common type of pediatric brain tumor is medulloblastoma, which arises in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance. It accounts for about 20-25% of all childhood brain tumors. Medulloblastomas are considered high-grade tumors, meaning they tend to grow rapidly and have a higher potential to spread through cerebrospinal fluid pathways. Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Advances in molecular biology have led to the classification of medulloblastomas into distinct molecular subgroups, which helps tailor specific therapies.
Gliomas are another major category, originating from glial cells that provide support and insulation for neurons. Pediatric gliomas include low-grade and high-grade types. Pilocytic astrocytoma, a low-grade glioma, is the most common brain tumor in children and generally has a favorable prognosis following surgical removal. On the other hand, diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG) are high-grade tumors located in the brainstem, and they are notably aggressive with limited treatment options and poor survival rates.
Ependymomas develop from ependymal cells lining the ventricles and the central canal of the spinal cord. These tumors can occur anywhere within the central nervous system but are most frequently found in the posterior fossa region in children. Surgical resection is often the primary treatment, sometimes complemented by radiation therapy.
Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) are rare but highly malignant tumors that predominantly affect children under three years of age. They are characterized by rapid growth and a poor prognosis. Due to their aggressive nature, multimodal treatment including surge
ry, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation is employed, but survival rates remain low.
Choroid plexus tumors originate from the choroid plexus, which produces cerebrospinal fluid. These tumors can be benign (choroid plexus papilloma) or malignant (choroid plexus carcinoma). Surgical removal is the mainstay of treatment, especially for benign tumors, while malignant ones may require additional therapy.
Other less common pediatric brain tumors include optic pathway gliomas, typically associated with neurofibromatosis type 1, and germ cell tumors, which often occur in the pineal or suprasellar regions. These tumors vary widely in behavior and treatment strategies.
Early detection of pediatric brain tumors relies on recognizing symptoms such as persistent headaches, vomiting, vision problems, balance issues, and neurological deficits. Due to the complexity and diversity of these tumors, a multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists is essential for optimal management.
Continued research into the molecular and genetic underpinnings of these tumors promises to improve diagnostic accuracy and develop targeted therapies, ultimately aiming to increase survival and quality of life for affected children.
