Treatment of Ependymoma
What is ependymoma?
Ependymoma is a growth of cells that form within the brain or spinal cord. These cells rarely spread beyond the central nervous system (CNS); however, they can spread to other areas of the CNS through cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Ependymomas can be diagnosed in both adults and children. For adults, the tumors are most often located on the spine, while for children, the tumors originate in the lower half of the brain (“posterior fossa”). About 5% of brain tumors in children are ependymomas.
What causes ependymoma?
The cause of ependymoma is not clear; however, this type of tumor begins as a growth of cells in the brain or spinal cord. Ependymoma occurs when the cells within the brain or spinal cord develop a change in their DNA. In tumor cells, changes to the DNA give the cell different instructions, therefore, causing an increase in growth and the spread of tumor cells.
What are the risk factors for ependymoma?
Factors that may increase the risk of ependymoma include the following:
- Young age: Ependymoma can happen at any age; however, it most often occurs in children.
- Inherited syndromes: Some ependymomas are linked to certain genetic conditions that can be passed down within families, like neurofibromatosis type 2 and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
What are the signs of ependymoma ?
Symptoms of ependymoma may depend on the location of the tumor. These tumors often form in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms of ependymoma in the brain include:
- Blurry vision.
- Confusion.
- Headaches.
- Irritability.
- Nausea.
- Seizures.
- Vomiting.
Symptoms of ependymoma in the spinal cord include:
- Sexual, urinary or bowel changes.
- Loss of balance.
- Pain in the neck or back.
- Trouble walking.
- Weakness in legs.
What are treatment options for ependymoma?
Surgery is the primary option for treatment of ependymoma. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tissue as possible and in order to determine the type of tumor. Some, but not all, ependymomas can be removed or even cured by surgery.
The Neuro-Oncology Multidisciplinary Team at Karmanos Cancer Institute design individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s age, remaining tumor after surgery, tumor type, and tumor location. Additional treatment for ependymoma after surgery can include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, radiosurgery, or targeted therapy. Speaking with your healthcare provider will allow you to find the best treatment option for you.
Early detection is one of the most powerful weapons in the fight against cancer. When it comes to world-class cancer care close to home, look no further than Karmanos.
Information includes ependymoma causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.