Neuro-Oncology Connecticut Children’s Neuro-Oncology Program treats children and young adults with malignant, non-malignant and spinal cord tumors. Our patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care from our Neuro-Oncology team including other pediatric subspecialties such as Physical Therapy, Ophthalmology, Endocrinology, Nutrition, and Neurosurgery. Knowing the Signs and Symptoms of a Brain Tumor A brain tumor can cause symptoms by directly pressing on the surrounding parts of the brain that control certain body functions, or by causing a buildup of spinal fluid and pressure throughout the brain (a condition known as hydrocephalus). Signs or symptoms vary depending on a child’s age and the location of the tumor, but may include: Vomiting Seizures Weakness of the face, trunk, arms or legs Slurred speech Difficulty standing or walking Poor coordination Headache In babies and young toddlers, a rapidly enlarging head Brain tumors in children are often very different from those in adults in cell type, presentation, and responsiveness to treatment. Because a child’s brain is still developing, it is important for a child or adolescent to receive diagnosis and treatment from a physician team specializing in pediatric brain tumors. Types of Brain Tumors We Treat With a family-centered approach, the team treats a variety of brain and spinal tumors, including: Medulloblastoma (primitive neuroectodermal tumor) Astrocytoma Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) Ependymoma Choroid plexus papilloma and carcinoma Atypical teratoid-rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) Craniopharyngioma Ganglioglioma Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNET) Germ cell tumors Teaming Together to Treat Brain Tumors
