children s health issues
Astrocytomas
Introduction
The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. Astrocytomas are central nervous system tumors that develop from star-shaped cells (astrocytes) that help nerve cells in the brain or spinal cord function. These tumors may be cancerous (malignant) or not. The cause of astrocytomas is not known. Children may have difficulty walking, weakness, vision changes, vomiting, and headaches. Diagnosis usually involves an imaging test and a biopsy. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Astrocytomas are the most common Overview of Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors in Children , accounting for about 40% of cases. These tumors are usually diagnosed between ages 5 years and 9 years. These tumors can occur anywhere in the brain or spinal cord but are most common in the Astrocytomas are a type of brain tumor called a Gliomas . 