Childhood Medulloblastoma
Medulloblastoma, although rare, is a common brain tumor in children, responsible for 25% of all pediatric brain cancers. About 500 cases are diagnosed annually in the U.S. Usually diagnosed before the age of 10, medulloblastoma occurs in the cerebellum, a portion of the brain that plays a vital role in coordinating muscular movements. Tumors grow quickly and can invade neighboring portions of the brain. If tumor cells get into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), medulloblastoma can spread to other areas of the central nervous system. In rare instances, it can spread outside the brain and spinal cord. Medulloblastoma affects both sexes, although it's slightly more common in boys.
Medulloblastoma is believed to arise from fetal cells that remain in the cerebellum after birth. However, cancer experts have differing opinions on whether or not medulloblastoma is a type of primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET), which originates from leftover fetal cells.
Symptoms
- Headaches that occur in the morning and improve as the day progresses
- Headaches that occur while coughing or during physical activity
- Vomiting soon after awakening
- Clumsiness or unsteadiness
- Seizures
- Swollen optic nerve (papilledema)
Tests & Procedures
Medulloblastoma is initially diagnosed after an MRI or CT scan of the brain finds a tumor in the cerebellum (the lower, back part of the brain). Tumors in this region can be of several types, so the final diagnosis cannot be made until the tumor has been removed and the tissue reviewed by a neuropathologist.
Treatment
The standard therapy for medulloblastoma is surgery to remove all or most of the tumor, followed by radiation to destroy any cancer cells that might remain for some children, and chemotherapy for all children. When treatment is done without delay, the prognosis is very good. Over two-thirds of children with medulloblastoma are successfully treated.
Clinical Trials
The most innovative treatments for medulloblastoma are offered as part of clinical trials, which are closely monitored studies to test the safety and effectiveness of new treatments. In addition, M. D. Anderson patients are treated by combining various elements of active and previous treatment protocols, adopting individualized strategies for each child. Go to M. D. Anderson's list of current pediatric clinical trials to see if your child might be eligible.
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