Childhood Ependymoma

Childhood ependymoma is a cancer that forms in the ependymal cells that line the ventricles and passageways in the brain and the spinal cord. Ependymal cells make cerebrospinal fluid. Childhood ependymoma comprises approximately 9% of all childhood brain and spinal cord tumors, representing about 200 cases per year in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) groups ependymal tumors into 10 main subtypes based on their location and other features. The three main types of ependymoma that are seen in children are posterior fossa (infratentorial) ependymomas, which form in the lower part of the brain; supratentorial ependymomas, which form at the top of the head; and spinal cord ependymomas, which are rare in children but most cases that do occur are called myxopapillary ependymomas and form in the lower part of the spine.  

Ependymomas can form anywhere in the fluid-filled ventricles and passageways in the brain and spinal cord. Most ependymomas form in the fourth ventricle and affect the cerebellum and the brain stem.

Childhood Ependymoma Treatment (PDQ®)

Source: National Cancer Institute