About Pediatric Brain Tumors

What are pediatric brain tumors? Are there different kinds?

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells found in the central nervous system, either in the brain or the spinal cord. Pediatric brain tumors are the most common solid tumor in children, and there are many different kinds. Every brain tumor falls into one of two categories: benign and malignant. They can happen at any age and are very different from brain tumors in adults.  

Benign brain tumors are not cancerous, but because they are in the brain and can impact different functions of the body as they grow, they always require intervention. Sometimes, if a benign brain tumor is removed, it will not grow back. In our patients, more than half cannot have their tumor completely removed with surgery, so it is typical for patients to receive chemotherapy or targeted therapy, or, in some cases, radiation therapy. 

Malignant brain tumors have cancer cells. These cells can grow quickly and can spread within the brain or in the spinal cord. Cancerous, or malignant, brain tumors do not often spread beyond the brain or spinal cord. It is possible that the tumor may grow back after treatment.  

Pediatric brain tumors can grow anywhere in the brain, including the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem, and where the tumor is located will help your child’s physician decide how to treat it. The treatment that children need is often quite different from adult brain tumors, so it is important to receive care with a team that is experienced in the management of pediatric brain tumors. All children with malignant brain tumors will have a treatment plan that combines surgery with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. 

Siteman Kids’ Pediatric Brain Tumor Program experts collaborate with The Brain Tumor Center at Siteman. WashU Medicine physicians from both groups participate in tumor boards to consider new approaches and establish the best, unique treatment plans for patients. 

What are the early symptoms of a pediatric brain tumor?

Some early symptoms of pediatric tumors can seem like other, more common illnesses and are easy to ignore, while others are concerning and cause parents to take their child to the doctor or emergency room. It is important to seek medical advice if neurological symptoms come on quickly and severely.  

How are brain tumors diagnosed in children? 

There are several tests a physician can do to determine if your child has a brain tumor. Some of these will be tests they have done before, like a blood test, and others will be new. If they suspect there is a brain tumor, the physician will first do tests that check your child’s nervous system. They can do this right in the exam room by talking with your child, checking their reflexes, conducting an eye exam, assessing their overall coordination, and more. If you are at your pediatrician, they may refer you to a neurologist.  

Can I ask for a second opinion about my child’s diagnosis? 

Our experts collaborate with other institutions that are seeking their input, and they request second opinions of colleagues at peer institutions as well. You can always request a second opinion when researching how to get your child the best pediatric cancer care. It is your right, and it is a common practice; many programs and hospitals encourage it. Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital makes requesting a second opinion easy. It is important that you feel confident about the care your child is getting and how their treatment is working. If you are getting care elsewhere and are interested in a second opinion from Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, request it here.