Advances in the management of pediatric central nervous system tumors

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2008 Sep:1138:22-31. doi: 10.1196/annals.1414.005.

Abstract

Central nervous system tumors are the most common pediatric solid tumors and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity in this age group. Survival rates have improved significantly over the last decades for most of the tumor types, as a consequence of improvements in neuroimaging, neurosurgery and neuroanesthesia, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The complexity of the management of these patients requires a multidisciplinary approach and has led to the emergence of a new subspecialty of pediatric neuro-oncologists who are dedicated to the management and follow-up of this population. This review highlights the most critical advances in the diagnostic and treatment modalities of pediatric brain tumors. A specific review of the most common tumor types discusses treatment options, controversies, and ongoing developments, with an emphasis on cooperative trials.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / pathology
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / surgery
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Survival Rate