What is Childhood Medulloblastoma?
Childhood Medulloblastoma is a fast-growing cancerous brain tumour that starts in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance, movement, and coordination. It is the most common malignant brain tumour in children, but it can also occur in adults. In some cases, the tumour can spread to other parts of the brain and spinal cord through the fluid that surrounds the central nervous system.
Causes
The exact cause of Childhood Medulloblastoma is not fully understood. It develops when cells in the cerebellum grow and divide uncontrollably. Most cases occur without a clear cause. However, certain inherited genetic conditions, such as Gorlin syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and Turcot syndrome, may increase the risk of developing this tumour.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop because the growing tumour increases pressure inside the skull or affects areas of the brain that control movement and balance. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Headaches, especially in the morning
- Nausea and vomiting
- Problems with balance and coordination
- Difficulty walking
- Dizziness
- Blurred or double vision
- Unusual tiredness or sleepiness
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
- Changes in bladder or bowel control
Symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the tumour and whether it has spread.
Diagnosis
Doctors use several tests to diagnose Medulloblastoma and determine whether it has spread.
Neurological Examination
A doctor checks vision, hearing, balance, reflexes, and coordination to look for signs of a brain tumour.
Imaging Tests
MRI scans are the main imaging test used to identify the tumour and determine its size and location. CT scans may also be used in some cases.
Biopsy
A sample of tumour tissue is examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and identify the tumour type.
Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Testing
A spinal tap may be performed after surgery to check whether cancer cells have spread through the cerebrospinal fluid.
Molecular Testing
Special laboratory tests can identify genetic and molecular features of the tumour, helping doctors choose the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the patient’s age, overall health, tumour size, and whether the cancer has spread.
Surgery
Surgery is usually the first treatment. The goal is to remove as much of the tumour as possible while protecting healthy brain tissue.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells that remain after surgery. It is often used in older children and adults.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It may be given after surgery, with radiation therapy, or both.
Stem Cell Transplant
In some patients, high-dose chemotherapy may be followed by a stem cell transplant to help restore healthy blood-forming cells.
Targeted and Emerging Therapies
Researchers continue to study new treatments based on the genetic features of Medulloblastoma. These approaches aim to improve survival while reducing long-term side effects.
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