We know how frightening a brain tumor diagnosis is, and we understand the importance of having specialists you can trust with your child’s care. Families should know that cure rates for children are generally high, and the majority of our patients survive cancer.
Types of pediatric brain tumors
Tumors occur when cells grow and multiply out of control. While benign (noncancerous) tumors may stay contained in one location, malignant (cancerous) tumors are more aggressive and can spread to other areas within the brain.
We treat dozens of types of brain tumors, including:
- Astrocytoma. This type of brain tumor occurs in the cells that make up the supportive tissues of the brain. In children, most astrocytoma tumors are slow-growing and confined to a single location (localized).
- Medulloblastoma. This fast-growing type of tumor is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. It occurs in the cerebellum, the lower back area of the brain responsible for muscle function.
- Ependymoma. This tumor forms from cells that produce cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal column. There are several different types of ependymomas, and the part of the brain affected depends on tumor location. Increased head size can be an early symptom of ependymoma in babies.
Brain tumor symptoms
Symptoms of brain tumors in children can vary based on the tumor’s location, since different areas of the brain control different functions such as sight, balance and coordination.
Symptoms of brain tumors in children can include:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Changes in appetite or behavior, including irritability
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Coordination problems or unusual eye movements
Brain tumor diagnosis
Physicians typically diagnose brain tumors using imaging studies including:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI uses radio waves and powerful magnets to create detailed images of your child’s brain. During the MRI, your child will need to lie on a table that slides into a tunnel-shaped machine.
Computerized tomography (CT) scan. This procedure uses X-rays and computers to create detailed images of the brain. The procedure requires your child to lie on a table that slides through a large doughnut-shaped machine.
Our sedation services team is on hand to provide anesthesia so your child is comfortable. Child life specialists explain procedures and tests in child-friendly language, helping distract, entertain and comfort them throughout the process. Learn more about what to expect during diagnosis and imaging.
Brain tumor treatment
Our specialists create an individualized treatment plan for each child. Doctors across different specialties meet regularly to review your child’s care, working together to identify the most effective treatment. We provide comprehensive child and family support services to make treatment as easy as possible on children and their families.
Treatment will depend on several factors that include tumor size and location, your child’s age and medical history. Brain tumor treatment in children typically involves some combination of the following:
- Surgery. If possible, physicians will surgically remove a brain tumor. Mary Bridge Children’s has a pediatric neurosurgeon who understands the unique challenges of treating brain tumors in children. Learn more about surgery.
- Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. Some chemotherapy is given orally, while other types require an intravenous (IV) infusion. Find out more about chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation beams to destroy cancer cells. Our radiation oncologists use the most sophisticated and accurate equipment currently available to minimize side effects on your child. Learn more about radiation therapy.
We partner with Seattle Children’s Hospital for patients needing bone marrow transplants. Also called a stem cell transplant, this procedure replaces defective blood-forming cells with normal ones.
