Childhood brain tumours account for a significant proportion of tumours in children and their treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Below, we provide more information about some important types of childhood brain tumours and treatment options:
1. Medulloblastoma: Medulloblastomas are usually located in the posterior pit of the brain, known as the posterior fossa. These tumours are generally considered malignant, but some subtypes can have long-term survival. Symptoms include headache, recurrent vomiting, impaired balance and hydrocephalus (fluid accumulation in the brain).
– Treatment: Surgical intervention is usually the first treatment option. The aim is to completely remove the tumour during surgery. Other treatment options such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be used for patients who do not respond to surgical treatment or who are at risk.
2. Astrocytoma: Astrocytomas can occur in both the brain and cerebellum and are usually benign tumours. Symptoms may vary depending on the location of the tumour, but symptoms such as headache, seizures and motor disorders may occur.
– Treatment: Surgery is used to remove the tumour completely if possible. Other treatment options such as radiotherapy or stereotactic radiosurgery may be considered in cases that cannot be completely removed or in cases of recurrence.
3. Craniopharyngioma: Craniopharyngiomas are located in the pits at the front of the skull and are generally considered benign. However, they can adhere to surrounding tissues and may recur. Symptoms include headache, visual disturbances, hydrocephalus and hormonal disorders.
– Treatment: Surgery is the first option in the treatment of craniopharyngiomas. It is aimed to remove the tumour as much as possible. Radiotherapy or stereotactic radiosurgery may be considered in cases that cannot be completely removed by surgery or in cases of recurrence.
4. Ependymoma: Ependymomas usually occur in the brain ventricles or areas connected to the ventricles. They can be both benign and malignant tumours. Symptoms may vary depending on the location of the tumour and may include symptoms such as seizures, weakness, speech disorders.
– Treatment: Surgery is the first option in the treatment of ependymomas and aims to completely remove the tumour if possible. Other treatment options such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be considered in cases that cannot be completely removed or recur.
5. Choroid Plexus Papilloma and Carcinoma: These tumours are usually located in the brain ventricles and originate from choroid plexus cells. While choroid plexus papillomas are considered benign, carcinomas can be malignant. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, vision loss and hydrocephalus.
– Treatment: Surgery aims to remove the tumour completely. Although the recurrence rate after total excision is low in papillomas, carcinomas may require closer follow-up and additional treatments.
Since childhood brain tumours can lead to serious consequences if left untreated, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are very important. The treatment approach may vary depending on factors such as the type, size, location and general health status of the patient. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist if brain tumours are suspected in children.