Childhood Astrocytomas

Astrocytomas are tumors that start in star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes. An astrocytoma is a type of glioma, which is a tumor that forms from glial cells. Malignant astrocytoma is the most common type of glioma diagnosed in children and can form anywhere in the brain and/or spinal cord.

Astrocytomas may be benign or malignant, but both benign and malignant brain tumors can cause signs and symptoms, and almost all need treatment. The incidence of malignant astrocytomas in children have declined since the mid-to-late 2010s, but non-malignant astrocytoma incidence has risen somewhat in recent years.

Brain tumors can occur in both children and adults. Treatment methods can vary between children and adults, but in most children, astrocytomas are removed through surgery.

Childhood Astrocytomas Treatment (PDQ®)

Source: National Cancer Institute