Rare pediatric brain tumors

Abstract

There are a large variety of rare pediatric brain tumors, but we limit ourselves to three which pediatric oncologists are likely to encounter at some point in their career. CNS rhabdoid and choroid plexus tumors are aggressive with generally poor survival, and their management is discussed, along with advances in the field of molecular pathology, and multi-institutional trials which have allowed some improvement in outcome. Craniopharyngioma is a more indolent tumor, and the diagnosis and management is discussed along with the impact that imaging and neurosurgical technique is having on improving outcomes. Late-effects remain troublesome in patients with any of the three diagnoses.

Keywords

• Hereditary neuropathy
• Charcot-marie- tooth disease
• Ultrasound imaging
• Vincristine
• Chemotherapy