Medulloblastoma

What is medulloblastoma?

Medulloblastomas make up about twenty percent of the brain tumors seen in children. This type of tumor arises from primitive neuroepithelial cells. It forms in the cerebellum at the lower back of the brain. The cerebellum controls movement, balance and postures. As it grows, it can block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which causes pressure inside the head to increase. A medulloblastoma also may be called a primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the brain.

What are the symptoms?

The duration of symptoms is usually very short. The usual signs are headaches (especially in the morning), vomiting, clumsiness, double vision, slow speech, and unusual sleepiness.

How is it diagnosed?

The diagnosis of medulloblastoma is made through an MRI scan and surgical biopsy. The initial treatment for medulloblastoma involves the surgical removal of the bulk of the tumor. It is often impossible to remove the tumor completely because it grows into normal brain tissue.

Following surgery, a course of radiation usually is given to kill remaining tumor cells at the site of the tumor. The entire head and spinal column may be irradiated because medulloblastoma cells can spread up and down the central nervous system. The area of the posterior fossa (the site of the main tumor) receives additional radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy is also used to treat medulloblastoma, often as a way to delay radiation given in a young child or in tumors that have a higher risk for recurrence. It may be given intravenously (IV) or by mouth. Dexamethasone, a steroid hormone, helps to reduce swelling around the tumor following surgery and during radiation therapy.

For additional information, visit these web sites:

About treatment for medulloblastoma at Children’s

Children’s hematology/oncology program consistently achieves treatment results ranking it as one of the top ten programs in the U.S. Children’s treats the majority of children with cancer and blood disorders in Minnesota and provides patients with access to a variety of clinical trials of ground-breaking new treatments, such as intra-operative MRI available during brain tumor surgery. Through our renowned brain tumor program, patients experience unparalleled family support, a nationally renowned pain management team, and compassionate, coordinated care.