Initial management of childhood brain tumors: neurosurgical considerations

J Child Neurol. 2008 Oct;23(10):1136-48. doi: 10.1177/0883073808321768.

Abstract

Intracranial tumors are the most common solid tumors in children. The infratentorial compartment will be the primary site for 60% to 70% of these tumors, including astrocytomas, medulloblastomas, and ependymomas. Several technological advancements have increased our knowledge of the cell biology of pediatric brain tumors, facilitated earlier diagnosis, and improved neurosurgical resections while minimizing neurological deficits. These in turn have not only improved the survival of children with brain tumors but also their quality of life. Current management strategies in most cases rely on surgery coupled with adjuvant therapies, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The vulnerability of the immature brain to adjuvant therapies creates many challenges for the treating physician. We review current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches and outcome for children harboring the most common pediatric brain tumors: astrocytomas (low-grade and high-grade glioma), ependymoma, medulloblastoma, and craniopharyngioma. The emphasis will be on the neurosurgical management of children with these tumors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Brain / pathology*
  • Brain / surgery*
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Brain Neoplasms / mortality
  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Brain Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Child
  • Drug Therapy / methods
  • Drug Therapy / trends
  • Early Detection of Cancer
  • Humans
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / trends*
  • Radiotherapy / methods
  • Radiotherapy / trends
  • Survival Rate / trends
  • Treatment Outcome