Brainstem tumors: Current management and future directions

Abstract

Tumors arising in the brainstem comprise 10–20% of all pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors and account for a small percentage in adults. The prognosis for these tumors was considered uniformly poor prior to the era of modern neuroimaging and the location was fraught with disaster being considered a ‘no man’s land’ for neurosurgeons. Following the introduction of advanced imaging modalities and neurophysiological monitoring, striking progress has occurred in the management of these lesions. Brainstem tumors are presently classified based on their anatomic location, focality, and histopathology. This article reviews the current classification of brainstem tumors, current management options, and future directions in the treatment for these rare tumors.

Keywords

• brainstem glioma
• brainstem tumors
• cervicomedullary
• dorsal exophytic tumors
• management
• medulla
• midbrain tumors
• pontine glioma
• tectal tumors