What is Ependymoblastoma of the Brain?
Ependymoblastoma is a rare type of brain cancer that usually develops in children and babies. Ependymoblastoma is a type of embryonal tumour of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) that start during fetal life in the brain or spinal cord of the fetus. These tumours can occur at any age but most commonly these develop in young children and babies under 1 year of age. It shows a poor prognosis (likely course of the disease) with 5 years survival rate ranging from 0-30%.Disease causes
There is no well-known cause, however, certain hereditary and genetic mutations are considered responsible for the development of ependymoblastoma brain.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Constant headache
- Inability to maintain body balance or loss of balance
- Difficulty in speaking, abnormal or slurred speech
- Vision loss or double vision
- Body weakness
- Weakness of one side of the body
- Pain in the lower part of the back
- Weakness on the one side of the face
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Imaging tests such as X-Ray, CT-scan (computerized tomography), PET-scan (Positron emission tomography) help detect the site, size, and location of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy and histopathological examination
Treatment
Treatment is classified according to the age of the patient. For children over 3 years of age, surgical removal of the tumour along with radiation therapy is the main treatment option. While surgical removal of the tumour along with chemotherapy is the main treatment option for children less than 3 years of age. Another treatment option is stem cell transplantation.What Support can we Give for Ependymoblastoma (Brain)?
Ependymoblastoma (Brain) is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Ependymoblastoma (Brain), we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
