Medulloblastoma is a type of cancer found in the brain. This type of cancer is due to an abnormal growth of cells that start in the cerebrum, or the lower part of the brain, which eventually causes a tumor. It may spread to other parts of the brain, through the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord.
Yearly, about 350 to 500 people are affected by medulloblastoma and it is mostly seen in pediatric patients. Although it seems rare, it is the most prevalent type of brain cancer in children and most are diagnosed within the ages of five and nine.
Symptoms of medulloblastoma occur when the tumor starts to grow and builds pressure, and can last for several months or years. Some common symptoms include dizziness, double vision, headaches, nausea, and unsteady walking. Overall, medulloblastoma affects the body's balance and coordination. It also affects a person’s daily life and their movement.
Medulloblastoma can be diagnosed through neurological exams, imaging tests such as MRI and CT, tissue sample testing, or biopsies.
Treatments for medulloblastoma include surgery to relieve fluid buildup, surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials that test new ideas to treat a patient.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/medulloblastoma/cdc-20363524
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22591-medulloblastoma
Written by Lahari Chebrolu from MEDILOQUY