What are the symptoms of pediatric brain tumors?
Each child experiences symptoms differently. The size and location of a tumor also affect symptoms. Among the most common symptoms are:
- Increased pressure inside the skull, caused by extra tissue or fluid in the brain
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Personality changes
- Irritability
- Drowsiness
- Depression
- Decreased heart and respiratory function
- Seizures
- Visual changes
- Slurred speech
- Uncoordinated muscle movements or walk
How are pediatric brain tumors diagnosed?
To diagnose and better analyze your child’s condition ― and help determine the best treatment ― your child’s doctor will complete a thorough medical history and order a number of tests. Depending on the type of brain tumor suspected, your child’s tests may include:
- A neurological exam, testing reflexes, muscle strength, eye and mouth movement, coordination and alertness
- Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- X-rays
- An angiogram, using dye and X-rays to view the blood vessels in the brain
- A myelogram, an X-ray of the spine that is similar to an angiogram
- Lumbar puncture or spinal tap
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan, a nuclear medicine procedure that measures the metabolic activity of cells
