When brain cells grow abnormally or out of control, a tumor (a mass of cells) can form. If the tumor puts pressure on certain areas of the brain, it can affect how the body functions.
When discovered early enough, brain tumors are usually treatable. Many that are slow-growing are cured with surgery alone. Other types that are faster-growing might need additional treatment with radiation therapy or chemotherapy, or both.
There are many different types of brain tumors. Some are cancerous (meaning they can spread to parts of the body outside the brain), and others aren’t. Doctors categorize a tumor based on its location, the type of cells involved, and how quickly it grows.
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What are the signs and symptoms of a brain tumor?
A brain tumor can cause symptoms by directly pressing on the surrounding parts of the brain that control certain body functions, or by causing a buildup of spinal fluid and pressure throughout the brain (a condition known as hydrocephalus).
Signs or symptoms depend on a child’s age and the location of the tumor, but may include:
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Weakness of the face, trunk, arms, or legs
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Poor coordination
- Headache
- In babies and young toddlers, a rapidly enlarging head
Since symptoms might develop gradually and can be like those of other common childhood conditions, brain tumors can be difficult to diagnose. If you ever have concerns about symptoms your child is having, talk with your child’s doctor right away.
What causes brain tumors?
Doctors don’t know what causes brain tumors, but researchers think there may be genetic and environmental causes.
Some kids who have certain genetic conditions have a greater chance of developing brain tumors. That includes diseases like neurofibromatosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
How are brain tumors treated?
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for a brain tumor. Treating a child with a brain tumor will usually include a combination of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Our collaborative team of pediatric experts creates a specialized treatment plan for each patient. This team includes our pediatric oncologists, neurosurgeons, neurologists, child life specialists, pediatric psychologists, social workers and pediatric rehabilitation medicine specialists including speech, physical, and occupational therapists.