What is Embryonal Tumour with Multilayered Rosettes (ETMR)?
Embryonal Tumour with Multilayered Rosettes (ETMR) is a rare and fast-growing brain tumour that mostly affects infants and young children. It develops from immature cells in the brain and is considered a serious form of childhood cancer.
Causes
The exact cause of ETMR is not known. Researchers have found that many cases are linked to changes in certain genes, including C19MC and DICER1, which may lead to abnormal cell growth.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on where the tumour is located in the brain. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Problems with balance or walking
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Vision problems
- Changes in behavior or mood
Diagnosis
Doctors may use several tests to diagnose ETMR, including:
- MRI or CT scans of the brain
- Biopsy to examine tumour tissue
- Genetic and molecular testing
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing to check for tumour spread
Treatment
Treatment usually involves a combination of:
- Surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible
- Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
- Radiation therapy when appropriate
- Supportive care to help manage symptoms and side effects
Because ETMR is a rare tumour, treatment is often provided by specialists experienced in caring for children with brain cancers.
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