Ependymoma is a rare type of tumour that arises in the brain or spinal cord. It originates in the ependymal cells, which line the fluid-filled ventricles and the central canal of the spinal cord. Ependymoma in children accounts for 5-10% of paediatric brain tumours. While it is not among the most common brain tumours, it requires early diagnosis and treatment to ensure better outcomes. This article gives an overview of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for children diagnosed with ependymoma.

Causes of Ependymoma in Children
Symptoms of Ependymoma in Children
Ependymoma Treatment Options for Kids
Myths and Facts
Did You Know?
Conclusion
When to Seek Help
Frequently Asked Questions

Causes of Ependymoma in Children

The exact cause of ependymoma in children remains unclear. Researchers suggest it may result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Unlike some cancers, no strong link has been established between lifestyle factors and the development of ependymoma in children.

Potential Causes Include:

Genetic Mutations: Mutations in certain genes, such as RELA fusion or other chromosomal changes, can lead to abnormal cell growth in the brain or spinal cord.
Inherited Syndromes: Rare genetic disorders like Li-Fraumeni syndrome may increase the risk.
Environmental Exposure: Though less certain, prenatal exposure to certain toxins or radiation might play a role.

While these factors are being studied, most cases occur sporadically, with no identifiable cause.

Ependymoma in Children

Symptoms of Ependymoma in Children

The symptoms of ependymoma in children depend on the tumour’s size and location. Tumours in the brain often present differently from those in the spinal cord.

Common Symptoms Include:

Headaches: Often worse in the morning and may improve after vomiting.
Nausea and Vomiting: Caused by increased pressure inside the skull.
Balance and Coordination Issues: Difficulty walking or performing fine motor tasks.
Seizures: Uncommon but can occur if the tumour irritates brain tissue.
Vision Problems: Double vision, blurred vision, or involuntary eye movements.
Back Pain or Weakness: More common in spinal cord ependymomas, causing limb weakness or sensory changes.
Changes in Behaviour: Irritability, fatigue, or developmental regression in younger children.

Early detection of these symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Ependymoma Treatment Options for Kids

Treating ependymoma in children requires a multidisciplinary approach involving paediatric oncologists, neurosurgeons, and radiation specialists. The treatment plan depends on the tumour’s location, grade, and the child’s overall health.

Key Treatment Modalities:

Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for ependymoma. The goal is to remove as much of the tumour as possible. Complete resection offers the best prognosis. However, tumours near vital brain structures may limit the extent of removal.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Advanced techniques like proton beam therapy can target the tumour precisely, reducing damage to healthy brain tissue.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy plays a limited role in treating ependymoma. It is usually considered when the tumour recurs or spreads.
Targeted Therapy: Emerging treatments focus on targeting specific genetic mutations associated with ependymoma. These therapies are still under research but show promise.
Supportive Care: Children undergoing treatment may need physical therapy, occupational therapy, or counselling to address physical and emotional challenges.

Ependymoma Prognosis in Children

The prognosis for children with ependymoma varies. Factors influencing outcomes include the tumour’s grade, location, and whether it was fully removed during surgery.

Survival Rates: Low-grade (Grade II) ependymomas generally have better outcomes than high-grade (Grade III) tumours.
Recurrence: Ependymomas can recur, even after successful treatment. Regular follow-ups with MRI scans are essential.
Quality of Life: Advances in treatment and supportive care have improved survival and quality of life for affected children.

Myths and Facts

Myth: Ependymoma is contagious.
Fact: Brain tumours, including ependymoma, are not infectious and cannot spread from one person to another.

Myth: Ependymomas always cause severe symptoms.
Fact: Symptoms vary widely. Some children may show only mild signs initially, making early diagnosis challenging.

Myth: Surgery alone can cure all cases of ependymoma.
Fact: While surgery is critical, additional treatments like radiation are often necessary to prevent recurrence.

Myth: Ependymoma only affects the brain.
Fact: Ependymoma can develop in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms differ based on the tumour’s location.

Myth: Children cannot recover fully from ependymoma.
Fact: Many children lead healthy lives after treatment, especially with advancements in medical care.

Did You Know?

Ependymomas are rare in children. They represent only about 2% of all paediatric central nervous system tumours.
MRI is the gold standard for diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging provides detailed insights into the tumour’s size, location, and characteristics.

Conclusion

Ependymoma in children poses significant challenges, but early diagnosis and tailored treatments can improve outcomes. Understanding its causes, recognising symptoms, and pursuing appropriate treatment options can significantly improve outcomes.

With advancements in surgery, radiation therapy, and supportive care, many children achieve positive long-term results. Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor recurrence and ensure the child’s well-being. Raising awareness about the symptoms and treatment options empowers families to seek timely medical care, ensuring the best possible prognosis for affected children.

When to Seek Help

Consult a healthcare provider if your child experiences persistent headaches, nausea, vomiting, unexplained changes in behaviour, difficulty with balance or coordination, or vision problems. These symptoms could indicate a brain tumor like ependymoma, which affects the spinal cord or brain.

At Narayana Health, our paediatric oncology specialists offer comprehensive care tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring the best possible treatment.

Schedule a consultation today— Call us @ 08068617735

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