Brain tumors in children are among the diseases that raise a lot of concern among parents and doctors alike, because of their direct impact on the child’s life and development. These tumors arise from abnormal growth in brain cells, and may be benign or malignant, requiring urgent medical intervention. Despite the challenges posed by these tumors, medical progress in diagnosis and treatment has contributed to raising recovery rates and significantly improving the chances of survival.

To better clarify the picture, in this article we will discuss the most important aspects related to this disease, in terms of its types, symptoms, and modern treatment methods to deal with it with confidence.

What are brain tumors in children?

Have you ever wondered how a young child can get a brain tumor?

On the other hand, brain tumors are among the most common cancers in childhood after leukemia, and they may appear anywhere within the brain or spinal cord, which makes their location an essential factor in determining symptoms and type of treatment.

What causes brain tumors in children?

In many cases, brain tumors in children arise as a result of genetic changes that affect the division of brain cells, leading to abnormal growth and the formation of tumors of different sizes and types. Some genetic disorders are associated with an increased risk of infection, including neurofibromatosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and retinoblastoma.

Exposure to high doses of radiation is also one of the factors that may increase the risk of brain tumors in children. Thus, it can be said that the causes vary between genetic and environmental factors that affect the abnormal growth of brain cells.

Types of brain tumors in children

There are many brain tumors that affect children, depending on the type of cells from which they arise and their location within the brain. The most important of these types فThe following:

First: astrocytomas

It is one of the most common brain tumors in childhood. It often appears between the ages of five and eight. It arises from astrocytes that support nerve cells. It may be slow or fast depending on the nature of the tumor.

The most important types are:

• Grade 1 astrocytoma is the most common, has slow growth, and is often treated only with surgery.
• As for grade II diffuse astrocytoma, it infiltrates neighboring tissues, and this makes complete resection more difficult.
• Grade III anaplastic astrocytoma is malignant and its symptoms vary depending on its location.
• While glioblastoma multiforme is the most aggressive and rapidly growing type, it often leads to increased pressure within the brain.

Second: Other tumors in children

This category includes a group of less common tumors that vary in their characteristics and method of treatment. Among the most important are:

• Brainstem gliomas, which usually grow in the middle of the brainstem, are difficult to remove surgically due to the sensitivity of their location.
• Choroid plexus tumors may lead to accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid and the occurrence of hydrocephalus.
• Craniopharyngiomas are often classified as benign tumors, as they grow near the pituitary gland and may sometimes affect its functions.
• Neuroepithelial tumors are rare, originate in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and may sometimes cause seizures or minor neurological disorders.
• Ependymoma is also considered a tumor that grows inside the ventricles of the brain, and is usually treated with surgery or radiation.
• Germ cell tumors, which may be benign or malignant, arise from embryonic cells in early development.
• Medulloblastomas are relatively common in children, as they grow in the cerebellum, which is responsible for balance, and they constitute about 15% of childhood brain tumors.
• Optic gliomas, which are sometimes associated with neurofibromatosis and may affect vision or cause hormonal disturbances due to their sensitive location.

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What are the symptoms of a brain tumor in children?

Vary Brain tumor symptoms in children Depending on the age of the child and the location of the tumor, However, some common signs may appear, including:

• Frequent or abnormal tilt in the head position while sitting or moving.
• Unexplained increase in head size compared to the child's normal age.
• Repeated bouts of nausea and vomiting are not usually associated with high fever or stomach upset.
• Severe or recurring headache that gradually increases over time.
• Difficulty with balance or problems walking steadily.
• Visual disturbances manifested by blurred vision, loss of part of the field of vision, or abnormal movement of the eyes.
• Noticeable changes in behavior appear in the form of a decrease in the level of activity and vitality, with a constant tendency towards fatigue and lethargy.
• Spasms or involuntary movements that appear for no apparent reason.
• Disturbances in growth or puberty, whether early or late.
• Excessive thirst and unusual frequent urination.

Symptoms of brain tumor in newborns

Brain tumors in newborns develop rapidly as a result of weak immunity and incomplete growth. Symptoms may not appear early due to the flexibility of the skull, but with time a change in the shape of the head or its enlargement is noted, which prompts the parents to see a doctor.

On the other hand, symptoms appear general and non-specific, They may include:

• Lack of sleep and disturbance.
• Poor appetite for food.
• Slow growth and lack of weight gain.
• Mood swings and constant crying.
• Lack of interaction with surrounding people.

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Diagnosis of brain tumors in children

When indicators that raise suspicion of the presence of a brain tumor are observed, the specialist doctor begins a comprehensive evaluation plan aimed at determining the exact nature and location of the tumor to ensure the best course of treatment. Diagnostic stages include: ما يلي:

• Beginning with a medical evaluation, where the process begins with a counseling session with the parents during which the medical history of the child and family members is reviewed, followed by a careful physical examination to monitor any physical or neurological indicators that help guide the subsequent examinations accurately.
• Specialized neurological evaluation: This examination aims to evaluate brain function by observing balance, eye movement, coordination, reflexes and attention.
• Advanced imaging techniques are an essential tool in diagnosis, as CT and MRI scans reveal the exact location and size of the tumor, with the possibility of using contrast materials to increase clarity when needed.
• Laboratory tests are used to conduct accurate blood analyzes that help the doctor monitor biological indicators that may indicate the presence of abnormal activity in the cells.
• Tissue examination (biopsy). In some cases, a sample of tumor tissue is taken to examine it under a microscope to determine its type and grade. This helps in developing an appropriate treatment plan for the child’s condition.

Treatment of brain tumors in children

He depends Treatment of brain tumors in children At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital, there is an integrated plan that balances medical precision and modern technologies with the aim of safely removing the tumor while preserving brain functions, where the treatment plan is determined based on a group of factors, من بينها:

• Child's age.
•  The nature of the tumor.
•  Its location inside the brain.
•  The extent of its spread in surrounding tissues.

Accordingly, it is now possible to identify the most important therapeutic methods used to deal with Brain tumors in children the following :

 Therapeutic surgery

 Surgical operations are considered the most important step in treating brain tumors in children. The neurosurgical team uses precise techniques to remove the tumor while preserving healthy tissue, followed by a rehabilitation program to help the child gradually regain his neurological functions.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is used after surgery to target remaining cells and reduce the possibility of tumor recurrence, with precise guidance of radiation to protect healthy tissues. It is carried out with special caution in young children to avoid affecting brain development, under the supervision of staff specialized in pediatric oncology.

Proton therapy technology

Our hospital is a pioneer in the use of proton therapy as one of the latest innovative solutions for treating brain tumors, as it allows precise doses to be directed towards the tumor while minimizing damage to healthy tissues, and is particularly suitable for tumors close to sensitive areas and for children in the early stages of development.

Chemotherapy with modern techniques

Chemotherapy is considered an effective method in controlling rapidly growing cancer cells, and it is often used in combination with radiation or surgery to achieve the best results. On the other hand, medications are given in precise doses orally or intravenously, and sometimes directly into the cerebrospinal fluid, depending on the type of tumor and the child’s response.

Targeted drug therapy

This type of treatment represents a qualitative leap, as it precisely targets the genes or proteins responsible for tumor growth, which reduces the proliferation of tumors Cancer cells It maintains health, and is often used in cases that do not respond to traditional treatment or within plans designed according to the nature of the tumor and the child’s response.

Integrated care and humanitarian support

Psychosocial care represents an essential part of the treatment journey, as the child and his family receive continuous support during the treatment stages and beyond, and periodic follow-up contributes to early detection of any indicators of the tumor returning and increases reassurance to achieve a comprehensive recovery.

The cure rate for brain tumors in children?

Cure rates for brain tumors in children vary depending on the type of tumor and the timing of its discovery. For example, in benign cases, five-year survival rates may exceed 96% in children, and gradually decrease with age. These numbers indicate significant development in diagnosis and treatment, along with an improved level of medical care.

Conclusion

Hence, we realize the importance of awareness of brain tumors in children and the role of early diagnosis in raising recovery rates and improving the quality of life, with the importance of providing precise care that combines medical expertise and modern technologies to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Hurry up and book your consultation now Al Mousa Specialist Hospital Let us be with you on a safe treatment journey that gives your child a new start towards life.

Frequently asked questions

What is the headache caused by a brain tumor in children?

Headaches may appear frequently in the morning and are accompanied by nausea or vomiting, with features of fatigue or lack of activity. The recurrence of these symptoms, along with disturbances in vision or balance, requires immediate medical consultation.

What is the survival rate for brain tumors in children?

Cure rates vary depending on the type and location of the tumor, but thanks to medical progress, especially early detection and treatment in specialized centers, the chances of recovery have increased significantly.

What is the typical recovery time after surgery for a brain tumor?

The recovery period varies depending on the type of tumor and the age of the child, but it extends from weeks to months, and includes a rehabilitation program to support gradual neurological and motor recovery.

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