Childhood Medulloblastoma

Definition

Childhood central nervous system (CNS) embryonal tumors are a group of aggressive brain cancers that begin in the developing brain tissue of infants and children. The most common subtype is medulloblastoma, but others include embryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes (ETMR) and CNS neuroblastoma.

Characteristics

These tumors often grow quickly and can spread through the cerebrospinal fluid. Symptoms vary by tumor location but may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, balance problems, changes in behavior, and vision issues. Most arise in the cerebellum or brainstem.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

Diagnosis involves neurological exams, brain and spine MRI, lumbar puncture, and biopsy. Molecular testing helps classify tumor subtypes. Prognosis depends on age, tumor type, location, metastasis, and response to treatment. Some embryonal tumors have very poor outcomes, while others, like standard-risk medulloblastomas, are more treatable.

Treatment

Treatment typically includes surgery to remove the tumor, followed by radiation therapy (usually for children over age 3) and multi-agent chemotherapy. Advanced treatments may include high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue and targeted therapies under clinical trial protocols.

Last Revised: 12 May , 2025