Medulloblastoma

Causes and Symptoms of Medulloblastoma

Scientists are still investigating the possible causes of medulloblastomas.

Increased pressure on the brain from the medulloblastoma may cause hydrocephalus and precipitate the following symptoms:

• Headache
• Sleepiness
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Unusual eye movement
• Changes in behavior
• Walking difficulties
• Appetite changes

How Is A Medulloblastoma Diagnosed?

If your primary care physician suspects that your symptoms and medical history suggest the possibility of a brain tumor, then sophisticated brain imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans will help determine an accurate diagnosis.

Advanced Treatments for Medulloblastoma at NSPC

NSPC Brain & Spine Surgery (NSPC) (NSPC) offers the most recent advancements in treatments for brain cancers. With clinical trials, you have the options for the newest treatments available.

Medulloblastoma treatments involve removal of the tumor surgically, radiation and chemotherapy. Our board-certified neurosurgeons provide expert care and treatment—so you have the best of possible outcomes.

Medulloblastoma surgery has two objectives:

• Removing as much of the mass as possible, while minimizing any damage to neighboring healthy tissue.
• Increasing the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid by removing blockages, thereby decreasing the pressure on the brain.

Radiation Therapy

Chemotherapy or radiation is usually recommended to decrease the likelihood that any remaining tumor—that wasn’t removed by the surgery—survives and causes a recurrence.

Stereotactic Radiation uses highly concentrated radiation beams to destroy the remaining cancer cells, with pinpoint accuracy.

NSPC has a number of premier medical centers in the New York area. Our Long Island Brain Tumor Center can answer questions you have, and our award-winning doctors can provide the expertise you need to make the best decision for you or your child.

Related NSPC Center

Long Island Brain and Spine Tumor Center

NSPC provides state-of-the-art treatment of benign and malignant brain and spine tumors, using minimally invasive procedures like Gamma Knife®, Novalis TX™, and CyberKnife® rather than major surgery whenever appropriate. Our physicians also perform experienced pediatric neurosurgery — they give personalized, individual attention combined with knowledge and experience to take on the most challenging of cases.