The brochure Ependymoma contains comprehensive information about this disease. Please note this brochure is currently only available in Dutch. The most important information is posted on our website.
Causes
Ependymomas are caused by a developmental error in a (progenitor) cell of the supporting cells. Probably something is damaged in the chromosomes or in the DNA of this cell. It is unclear as to what exactly causes ependymomas. Sometimes the tumor is already present in rudimentary form in the womb.
Symptoms
Most children have been unwell for some time, are nauseous, vomit or have headaches. Other symptoms include crossed eyes, difficulty swallowing or speaking, difficulty writing, dizziness and impaired motor skills.
How is ependymoma diagnosed?
An MRI scan is performed and cerebrospinal fluid is drawn under sedation.
Treatment
Children with an ependymona are treated according to a protocol drawn up by national and international experts. Your child first undergoes surgery. Subsequent treatment depends on the grade and location of the tumor, your child's age and whether the tumor could be completely removed. Sometimes no treatment is required after surgery, but other times treatment calls for chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a combination of the two.
Chance of recovery
If the tumor can be removed completely and there are no metastases, there is a reasonable to good chance of recovery. However, ependymomas do tend to recur. The chance of recovery is smaller if the tumor cannot be removed completely and/or if there are any metastases. Don't be influenced too much by statistics. Every child and every situation is unique.
Questions?
Children and adolescents with an ependymoma are treated in the neuro-oncology department.