|
|
|
The Visual System and Childhood Brain Tumor |
 |
 |
 |
|
Michael X. Repka, M.D. Professor of Ophthalmology
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Childhood brain tumors present with visual symptoms about 50% of the time. Additional children will develop visual symptoms and or signs during and after treatment. Such signs may become permanent or may resolve. The input of an ophthalmologist in the overall treatment plan may be important in monitoring the oncologic therapy, as well as suggesting simple interventions to prevent unnecessary loss of vision or ocular motor function. |
|
Read more...
|
|
Neurotoxicity: Changes in the Brains of Children with Brain Tumors of the Central Nervous System |
|
|
|
|
Written by Kathy Warren, M.D., pediatric oncologist, National Cancer Institute
|
|
Neurotoxicity is a significant tumor-and treatment-related complication for a number of childhood cancer survivors. It is particularly relevant for children with brain tumors who require therapy specifically directed at the central nervous system. Despite its significance, relatively little is known about the etiology, diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of neurotoxicity. As more children with cancer are surviving longer, the importance of determining the long-term effects of treatment becomes paramount. Clinical studies to investigate these issues are becoming more prevalent. |
|
Read more...
|
|
|
Behavior Problems in Children who have Undergone Treatment for Brain Tumors |
|
|
|
|
Written by Mary Ann McCabe, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, Society for Research in Child Development
|
|
Children and adolescents who have undergone treatment for brain tumors may be more likely to exhibit behavior problems than their peers. There have been relatively few formal studies of this issue, and behavior problems have often not been included in studies of neuropsychological outcome following treatment. Studies which have been done, using parent rating scales, suggest that children who are newly diagnosed with brain tumors have a higher incidence of social and adjustment difficulties than well children, but not necessarily greater than children who are newly diagnosed with other forms of cancer. So far, research has been unable to show a link between specific treatment variables (e.g., cranial radiation) and problems with behavior. |
|
Read more...
|
|
Written by Loice Swisher, M.D.
|
|
Cerebellar mutism was first reported in 1979 by Hirsh after a posterior fossa tumor resection. In the past, cerebellar mutism was thought to be an uncommon problem. However, there have been increasing numbers of case reports and literature reviews that indicate that cerebellar mutism may be significantly more common than previously thought. The reason for this increase of reports is unclear but may be due to neurosurgical advances that allow more aggressive tumor resection. |
|
Read more...
|
|
|
|
|
|
Late Effects