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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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:

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

Brainstem glioma Resources
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