Embryonal tumors are a group of aggressive cancers that originate in the brain or spinal cord. These fast-growing malignancies primarily affect infants and young children.
Understanding Embryonal Tumors
Embryonal tumors develop from undeveloped cells, called embryonic cells, that remain in the body after a child’s birth. These immature cells possess the potential for rapid and uncontrolled growth, leading to tumor formation. The tumors exhibit rapid expansion and can spread to other areas, particularly within the central nervous system.
Key Types of Embryonal Tumors
Medulloblastoma is the most common embryonal tumor, developing in the cerebellum at the back of the brain. This tumor arises in children aged three to eight years. It can disrupt balance and coordination due to its location.
Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor (AT/RT) is a less common but highly aggressive embryonal tumor. It affects infants and toddlers. This tumor is linked to specific genetic alterations, particularly in the SMARCB1 or SMARCA4 genes.
Embryonal Tumor with Multilayered Rosettes (ETMR) is a very rare and aggressive tumor. It is characterized by a distinct genetic change involving the amplification of the C19MC region on chromosome 19. These tumors present in infants and very young children, and diagnosis relies on identifying this specific molecular signature.
Common Symptoms
The presence of an embryonal tumor can manifest through various general symptoms, which depend on the tumor’s size and specific location within the brain or spinal cord. Children might experience:
Headaches, particularly those worse in the morning or awakening them from sleep.
Nausea and vomiting, sometimes without an apparent cause.
Issues with balance or coordination, such as difficulty walking steadily.
Changes in behavior or personality, along with unusual lethargy or increased sleepiness.
Vision problems, including double vision or difficulty tracking objects.
In infants, an enlarging head circumference or a bulging soft spot on the head (fontanelle).
Diagnostic Methods
Diagnosis begins with imaging techniques to visualize the brain and spinal cord. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is used, providing detailed images. Computed Tomography (CT) scans are also employed for additional views.
A definitive diagnosis requires a biopsy, which involves the surgical removal of a small tissue sample from the tumor. This tissue is then examined under a microscope by a neuropathologist to identify the specific type of tumor cells.
Other tests, such as a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), may be performed. This procedure involves collecting cerebrospinal fluid to check for the presence of tumor cells that may have spread.
Treatment Overview
Treatment for embryonal tumors involves a combination of different approaches. Surgery is the initial step, aiming to safely remove as much of the tumor as possible. The extent of tumor removal can significantly influence the overall treatment plan.
Following surgery, chemotherapy is administered, which uses powerful drugs to target and eliminate cancer cells throughout the body. Radiation therapy, using high-energy rays, is another treatment modality. This therapy focuses on destroying remaining cancer cells in the tumor area and is reserved for older children due to potential developmental side effects. Treatment plans are highly individualized, taking into account the specific tumor type, its location, any spread, and the child’s age and general health status.