DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Medulloblastoma
The most common malignant brain tumor in children, arising in the cerebellum (posterior fossa). Embryonal tumor with multiple molecular subgroups (WNT, SHH, Group 3, Group 4) with different prognoses. Can spread through CSF.
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Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Biopsy
- 2Imaging (CT, MRI, PET)
- 3Tumor markers
- 4Genetic testing
- 5Endoscopy
- 6Blood tests
- 7Screening programs
Prognosis
Standard-risk disease (gross total resection, no metastases) has 70-80% 5-year survival. High-risk (metastases, subtotal resection, MYC amplification) has 40-50% survival. Infants <3 years have poorer outcomes due to treatment limitations. Molecular subtyping (WNT, SHH, Group 3, Group 4) predicts prognosis: WNT has >95% survival, Group 3 has 50-60%. Survivors face neurocognitive deficits, endocrinopathies, and secondary malignancies. Long-term follow-up essential.
Prevention
- Smoking cessation
- Sun protection
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Vaccination (HPV, HBV)
- Screening programs
- Limit alcohol
- Maintain healthy weight
Research Status
Surgical resection, craniospinal radiation (reduced dose for low-risk), chemotherapy. Molecular subgrouping guides therapy. Survival 80% for average-risk; 95% for WNT; <50% for high-risk/Group 3. Long-term neurocognitive effects.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cancer.gov
- https://www.who.int/cancer
- https://www.cancer.org
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.