Pediatric Brain Tumors

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on how much pressure the tumor puts on the brain, the type of tumor, and its location. The most common symptoms include:

• Headaches (particularly upon awakening)
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Speech difficulties
• Diplopia (double vision)
• Weakness of one side of the body
• Lack of coordination or clumsiness of an arm or leg
• Changes in behavior or mood
• Increase in head size (usually in infants)

The signs and symptoms of brain tumors are often similar to those of other disorders. They may last for several weeks, or they may not. Parents often feel guilty that they did not "find it" sooner. The fact is, symptoms are highly variable. It is important to seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible by physicians with expertise in diagnosing and treating brain tumors.