What Is Medulloblastoma: Understanding Childhood Brain Tumours

Medulloblastoma is an astrocytic brain tumour which begins with malignant (cancerous) cells in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance, coordination, and movement. Although it is rare overall, medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumour in children.

Fortunately, if it’s diagnosed early and treated appropriately, many children can recover and go on to lead full and meaningful lives.

Who Gets Medulloblastoma?

• Medulloblastoma is most common in young kids older than the age of 10, but it can occur in teenagers and even more rarely outside of childhood.
• A source of emotional and social support from colleagues at work
• AMedulloblastoma is slightly more common in boys than in girls.
• Although the cause is unknown, it is thought that genetic changes and inherited conditions may increase risk.

The symptoms are often a function of the tumour location and size, but common signs include:

• Headaches that continue (especially in the morning)
• Nausea and vomiting that have not improved with typical treatments
• Coordination or balance issues (issues with walking and a lot of falling)
• Blurred vision or double vision
• Changed sign of energy, irritable or behavioural issues

Because many of these symptoms can resemble common childhood issues (such as stomach bugs or clumsy behaviour), it is crucial to seek healthcare if the symptoms persist or worsen over time.

If doctors think it might be medulloblastoma, then there may be a variety of tests suggested for your child, including:

• MRI or CT Scan - to detect a tumour in the brain
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - to see if any cancer cells are present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
• Biopsy or Surgery - to confirm the histology of the tumour
• Treatment Options
• Treatment protocol is usually a combination of strategies, tailored to the child's age and presentation:
• Surgery - removal of as much of the tumour as safety provides
• Radiation Therapy - to target remaining cancer cells in the brain and spinal cord (generally with children over the age of 3)
• Chemotherapy - often given to younger children, or given with radiation therapy for an enhanced option

This will be a difficult journey, with potentially lengthy hospital stays, side effects of treatment, and emotional fluctuations. Fortunately, because of advances in medicine in the past several years, the chances of survival have increased significantly. Depending upon the kind and promptness of treatment, 60-70% of children can survive long-term.

Children may require rehabilitation following treatment, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and assistance with learning, as treatment can affect growth, memory, or hormones.

• Emotional support is just as important as physical treatment. Have open discussions and reassure your child that they are never alone.
• Be part of support groups! Rely on parents who have direct experience; they can provide comfort and practical ideas.
• Explore ways to finance your child's treatment. Many NGOs, GoFundMe campaigns, or government programs to help families navigate the costs of this treatment.

Receiving a diagnosis of medulloblastoma may feel overwhelming to you and your family, but please remember, you are not alone. Early detection coupled with advanced treatments, as well as the love of family, can help many children reach a recovery goal and enjoy life.

At Cancer Control Mission, our goal is to empower families to ask questions, seek timely help, and lean on their community. Together, we can ensure that every child gets the chance to live a healthy, happy, and hope-filled life.Join the fight — ask questions, seek timely help, and support your community.