Surgical outcomes of cerebellar tumors in children

Abstract

Cerebellar tumors in childhood are generally associated with a favorable outcome if they are managed appropriately. 27 cases of pediatric cerebellar tumors, operated over a 7-year period, are presented. Histopathological diagnoses were as follows: pilocytic astrocytoma (48.2%); medulloblastoma (22.2%); ependymoma (18.5%); fibrillary astrocytoma grade III (3.7%); cystic oligodendroglioma (3.7%), and hemangioblastoma (3.7%). Microscopic gross total resection was achieved in 16 (59.3%) of 27 cases. The total removal of pediatric cerebellar tumors without neurological deficit is possible with appropriate microsurgical techniques excluding brain stem invasion. The follow-up periods must be shorter if brain stem invasion exists. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the adjuvant therapies according to the pathological diagnosis and the patient's age.