Brainstem glioma

Brainstem glioma is a type of cancer that occurs in the brainstem, the part of the brain that connects the cerebrum with the spinal cord. It is a rare and often aggressive form of brain tumor that primarily affects children and young adults.

Symptoms

The symptoms of brainstem glioma can vary depending on the exact location of the tumor within the brainstem. Common symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Weakness on one side of the body (hemiparesis)
• Double vision (diplopia)
• Facial weakness
• Difficulty speaking (dysarthria)
• Balance problems

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of brainstem glioma typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most commonly used imaging test for diagnosing brainstem gliomas.

Treatment

Treatment for brainstem glioma can be challenging due to the critical functions of the brainstem and the difficulty of surgical access. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Clinical trials

Prognosis

The prognosis for brainstem glioma varies depending on factors such as the patient's age, the size and location of the tumor, and the type of treatment received.

See also

• Glioma
• Brain tumor
• Pediatric oncology

Brainstem glioma Resources
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