Hypothalamic tumor is a tumor or mass in the hypothalamus (a centrally-located part of the brain). Hypothalamic tumors are typically gliomas, which means they grow from the glial cells that support the brain.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Hypothalamic gliomas are a form of brain cancer most commonly found in children. Some are aggressive; others grow more slowly.
Signs and tests
CT and MRI scans are the best tests to diagnose and determine the location of hypothalamic tumors.
Treatment
Hypothalamic tumors can often be treated with surgery, depending on the size and location of the tumor. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are used as alternative or additional treatment methods.
Support groups
There are nationwide and state support groups for patients with hypothalamic tumors and their families, which may be found via an Internet search.
Expectations (prognosis)
Prognosis depends on the type of tumor, the location, the grade of tumor (high grade (fast growing) versus low grade (slow growing), the size of the tumor and the age and general health of the patient.
Complications
Side effects from surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy vary. The complications which can arise from brain surgery include bleeding, infection, brain damage and rarely, death. Risks of radiation therapy include damage to healthy brain cells along with destruction of the tumor cells. Common side effects from chemotherapy include loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting and fatigue.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if your child has any symptoms of hypothalamic tumors. After surgery, your health care provider will want to be contacted if fever, lethargy, poor appetite, pain or loss of vision occur.