Pediatric Brain Tumors – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Pediatric brain tumors are the abnormal growth of tissues in the child’s brain. Brain tumors can occur in children at any age from birth to adolescence. There are different types of brain tumors in children based on the location of the tumor. They can be either cancerous or non-cancerous. The treatment for pediatric brain tumors is based on the type, location of the tumor, child’ age, etc.
What Are the Signs of Brain Tumor in Children?
The signs of brain tumor in children vary based on the type, location, size, and rate of growth of the tumor. The following are some of the common signs:
- Morning headaches
- Vomiting and nausea along with headache
- Balance issues
- Vision and speech issues
- Changes in behaviour
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Loss of hunger
- Seizures
- Weakness in arms, legs, or on one side of the body
- Confusion
- Memory issues
- Slurred speech
- Trouble while walking
What are the Causes of Brain Tumor in Children?
The exact reason for brain tumors in children is unknown. Most of brain tumors occur due to changes in genes. Patients who have genetic issues such as neurofibromatosis, retinoblastoma, etc. are at great risk of developing tumors. The risk of developing brain tumor also increases if you have a family history of brain tumors or genetic syndromes.
How is Brain Tumor Diagnosed in Children?
The doctor will ask about your child’s signs, medical history, and your family’s medical history. If the doctor suspects that your child has a brain tumor, he or she may use the following tests:
- Neurological exam: This test is performed to know how your child’s brain is working. This test also helps to know your child’s reflexes, muscle strength, eye and mouth movements.
- Computed tomography scans (CT scan): This test uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to generate clear picture of the brain.
- MRI scans: MRI scans use large magnets, radio waves, and computer to take detailed pictures of organs and structures. During an MRI scan, a contrast dye is injected into the vein to clearly view the cancer cells.
- Blood test: A blood test is helpful to know the substances released by the tumor called tumor markers.
- Biopsy: Biopsy collects a sample of tissue from the tumor for testing in a lab. This helps to know the type of cancer cells and how fast they would grow.
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan: The PET scan helps to know the metabolic activity of cells. PET scan helps to locate cancer cells in areas of the body that cannot be seen with other tests.
Treatment Options for Pediatric Brain Tumors in Children
The treatment for pediatric brain tumor is based on the size, location, your child’s health, the extent of the disease, and how fast it is spreading. The treatment options include:
- Surgery: Surgery is used to remove as much as tumor that is causing pressure. Surgery is considered as the first choice of treatment for a brain tumor.
- Radiation therapy: It uses high-energy radiation to kill the cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: During chemotherapy, medicines are injected into the vein to kill the cancer cells.
- Steroids: Steroids help to prevent swelling in the brain.
- Anti-seizure medications: These are used to treat and prevent seizures.
Brain tumors in children are very rare and it requires an expert to treat them. Hence, it is important to consider visiting a qualified and experienced neurosurgeon.
Does Your Child Have Signs of a Brain Tumor? Meet Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy Today
If your child is having signs of brain tumor and looking for the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad, Dr Vishwak Sena Reddy can help you. He has over 12 years of experience and is an expert in minimally invasive brain surgery. He has helped several patients suffering from different types of brain tumor and can definitely help you. To know more about his treatment, call and schedule your initial consultation today.