Astrocytomas are some of the most common forms of brain tumors found in young children. Depending on the location of the brain tumor, children will exhibit a wide variety of different symptoms. Many children who are diagnosed with an astrocytoma are successfully treated and go on to live a normal life.
The Facts
Astrocytomas are a form of brain tumor that develops from a cell within the brain called an astrocyte. Astrocytomas are commonly seen in children between the ages of 5 and 8. Every year, more than 1,000 children are diagnosed with a type of astrocytoma. In most cases, the astrocytoma is not cancerous. Many children develop this type of brain tumor at the base of their neck or in the upper portion of their brain.
Types
Astrocytomas are broken down into two groups. The most common type of astrocytoma is a low-grade tumor. These tumors grow slowly over time and generally stay in one part of the brain. High-grade astrocytomas are considerably more aggressive and spread to other areas of the brain. Children suffering from high-grade astrocytomas will endure more intensive treatment options.
Symptoms
Children with astrocytomas may exhibit a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include nausea and headaches. Children may also struggle with slow speech and balance issues. Sudden changes in personality could be an indication of an astrocytoma. Both weight loss and weight gain can be symptoms of a brain tumor. Children may also become lethargic and experience difficulty walking.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of an astrocytoma will begin with a physical examination. Doctors may test a child's vision, balance, and mental condition. Children will likely undergo a computerized tomography scan (CT scan), which is a diagnostic tool that shows the density of the tumor. Doctors may also use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in order to get a more detailed look at the brain tumor. If a CT scan or an MRI reveals a tumor, doctors may also perform a biopsy to determine the severity of the astrocytoma.
Treatment
Surgery is a common treatment method for children suffering from low-grade astrocytomas. Doctors will remove the entire tumor during the surgery and further treatment is usually unnecessary. If the tumor is not completely removed, chemotherapy may also be used. Radiation therapy may be necessary if the astrocytoma does not respond well to chemotherapy. Surgery is rarely used to treat high-grade astrocytomas, as they commonly spread throughout the brain. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are both administered in this situation.
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