Childhood Brain Tumors

Brain tumors are growths inside your skull. They are among the most common types of childhood cancers. Some are benign tumors, which aren't cancer. They can still be serious. Malignant tumors are cancerous.

Symptoms of a brain tumor might include

• Headache
• Vomiting and nausea
• Personality changes
• Depression
• Trouble controlling muscles
• Seizures
• Vision or speech problems

Treatment for children is sometimes different than for an adult. Long-term side effects are an important issue. The options also depend on the type of tumor and where it is. Removal of the tumor is often possible. If not, radiation, chemotherapy or both may be used.

External Resources

Shelly's place - Memorial page for seven-year-old Shelly Volk who died from a brainstem tumor. The site contains an annotated list to sites on childhood cancer and brain tumors.

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