Medulloblastoma

Medulloblastoma is a brain tumor that usually develops in childhood. It comes from cells that have the potential to mature to the point that they become neurons. MSdulloblastoma usually develops in the cerebellar vermis, adjacent to the fourth ventricle of the brain. As a result of its formation, the child experiences an unsteady gait and shaking movements of the limbs. Impaired outflow of cerebrospinal fluid leads to the development of hydrocephalus. Treatment consists of surgical removal of the tumor and restoration of normal outflow of cerebrospinal fluid, followed by a course of radiation therapy. Approximately 40% of children who had medulloblastoma were able to live for another five years after surgery.

Medulloblastoma: A brain tumor that requires special attention

Medulloblastoma is a malignant brain tumor that usually develops in childhood. It comes from cells that have the potential to mature to the point that they become neurons. Medulloblastoma usually forms in the cerebellar vermis, adjacent to the fourth ventricle of the brain.

One of the characteristic symptoms of medulloblastoma in children is an unsteady gait and shaking movements of the limbs. This is explained by the fact that the tumor puts pressure on adjacent brain structures that affect the coordination of movements. In addition, disruption of the outflow of cerebrospinal fluid caused by medulloblastoma can lead to the development of hydrocephalus, an accumulation of fluid in the ventricles of the brain.

Treatment for medulloblastoma usually involves surgical removal of the tumor followed by restoration of normal cerebrospinal fluid flow. After surgery, radiation therapy is often given to kill any remaining cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

The prognosis for children with medulloblastoma depends on various factors, including the patient's age, the size and location of the tumor, and the presence or absence of metastases. Modern treatments have significantly improved outcomes, and approximately 40% of children diagnosed with medulloblastoma are able to live another five years after surgery.

Despite significant advances in the treatment of medulloblastoma, it is still a serious disease that requires a comprehensive approach and collaboration between physicians, surgeons, oncologists and other specialists. Further research and development of new therapeutic approaches may help improve the prognosis and quality of life of children suffering from this rare type of brain tumor.

In conclusion, medulloblastoma is a brain tumor that is most common in children. It requires early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment, including surgery and radiation therapy. Despite the difficulties associated with this disease, modern treatment methods can increase survival and improve the quality of life of patients.

Medulloblastomas (from the Greek “medulla” - brain and blastema - rudiments; formerly Latin medula cerebri - “brain”, Latin blastoma - “bud”) are the most common primary malignant tumors of the supratentorial brain in children (in a population of 2, 5%), for boys 1.9–2.7%. In most cases (70%) they are localized in the cerebellum. Cerebral 3rd and PHYSICAL foci are most often located in the area of ​​the cerebellar auricle. The younger the patient is at diagnosis, the worse the prognosis.

The clinical picture is stereotypical: 1. High frequency of asymptomatic tumors diagnosed by chance (30%). 2. Headaches are typical for brain tumors of suprasellar localization (up to 60%). 3. Rigidity of the neck muscles and local pain in the occipital region are not always detected and are observed mainly with mesenchymal tumors. 4. Disturbances in wakefulness and sleep are observed in 40–50%. 5. Body temperature in 15–30% of patients can be elevated to low-grade levels both during the pathological process and after successful treatment. Here are a number of symptoms indicating the pathological nature of pain, sensations of decreased memory, headache, neurasthenia, etc. Constant headache and instability of movements, sensitivity disorders. Symptoms of a wandering pupil are characterized by prolonged pupil dilation, occurring spontaneously or under the influence of minor irritations. In children, optic nerve atrophy of varying severity occurs. The pain is accompanied by general weakness and headache. The decrease in visual acuity develops gradually and is not accompanied by hyperemia of the fundus. Less commonly, it affects both eyes. A history of traumatic brain injury and intrauterine infections are of no small importance.