Ependymoma

Ependymoma is a type of tumor that can form in the brain or spinal cord. Ependymoma begins in the ependymal cells in the brain and spinal cord that line the passageways where the fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) that nourishes your brain flows.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ependymoma can vary greatly depending on the location of the tumor, the age of the person, and the size of the tumor. Some common symptoms include:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Changes in vision or hearing
• Difficulty with balance and coordination
• Hydrocephalus (buildup of fluid in the brain)

Causes

The exact cause of ependymoma is not known. It is thought to occur when a cell develops errors (mutations) in its DNA. The mutations allow cells to grow and divide at an accelerated rate and to continue living when healthy cells would die. The accumulating abnormal cells form a mass (tumor). Ependymoma can occur at any age, but most often occurs in young children.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ependymoma involves a thorough examination by a doctor, including a neurological examination. Tests may include:

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• CT scan (Computed Tomography scan)
• Biopsy

Treatment

Treatment for ependymoma often involves surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. Other treatments may include:

• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted drug therapy

Prognosis

The prognosis for ependymoma varies greatly depending on the location and size of the tumor, the person's age, and the extent of the tumor at the time of diagnosis.

See also

• Brain tumor
• Spinal cord tumor
• Cancer

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