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Childhood brain tumours are one of the most challenging health conditions for both parents and healthcare providers. The diagnosis of a brain tumour in a child can be devastating, and it requires immediate medical attention. In India, brain tumours are among the most common cancers affecting children, and the incidence rate has steadily increased over the past few years.
Keep reading to find out what it is, what are the alarming symptoms and how it is diagnosed and treated.
What is a Brain Tumor?
A brain tumour is the growth of abnormal cells that develop in the brain or the tissues that support it. Brain tumours can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and they can develop in different parts of the brain, such as the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem. It can cause various symptoms, depending on their location and size, and they can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
Brain Tumors in Children: Causes and Symptoms
The exact cause of brain tumours in children is unknown, but several factors can increase their risks, such as exposure to radiation, genetic disorders, and a family history of cancer. The symptoms of brain tumours in children can vary, but some common signs include:
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headaches,
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vomiting,
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seizures,
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vision problems,
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speech difficulties,
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and cognitive impairment.
In some cases, children may also experience behavioural changes, loss of balance, and coordination problems. In that case, it is important to consult with a team of experts at the neurosurgery hospital in Gurgaon.
Brain Tumors in Children: Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis of a brain tumour in a child typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, and a biopsy, which involves the removal of a small sample of the tumour tissue for analysis. Once the tumour is identified, a team of healthcare professionals, including pediatric neurosurgeons, oncologists, and radiation therapists, will develop a treatment plan based on the type, location, and size of the tumour, as well as the child's age and overall health.
The treatment options for brain tumours in children may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Surgery involves the removal of the tumour, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, and targeted therapy targets specific proteins or genes that help cancer cells grow and divide. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used to achieve the best possible outcome.
Post Operation Care for Brain Tumor
Post-operative care is critical for ensuring the patient's speedy and safe recovery after a surgical procedure. The post-operative care plan is designed to provide the patient with the necessary support to help them manage pain, prevent complications, and restore function. The goal is to ensure that the patient is comfortable and that their condition is stable. Proper post-operative care can help to reduce the risk of complications such as infections, blood clots, and delayed healing. It can also help to improve the patient's overall health and well-being, including physical and emotional recovery. Timely and appropriate post-operative care is essential to ensure that the patient is well-supported during their recovery, which can ultimately lead to a faster and more complete recovery. Here are certain things that you need to take into consideration:
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Monitoring Vital Signs
Regular monitoring of the child's vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and breathing rate.
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Pain Management
Administer pain medications to relieve any pain or discomfort that the child may be experiencing.
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Fluid Management
Monitoring the child's fluid intake and output and providing intravenous fluids if necessary to prevent dehydration.
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Nutrition Management
Providing appropriate nutrition through intravenous fluids or oral intake as tolerated by the child.
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Mobility
Encourage the child to move around as soon as possible to prevent complications like blood clots or pressure sores, but do ensure that you are always around to provide support if required.
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Wound Care
Keeping the surgical wound clean and dry to prevent infection and dressing changes as directed by the healthcare provider.
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Follow-up Appointments
Scheduling and attending follow-up appointments with the oncologist to monitor the child's recovery and detect any potential complications.
You can connect with our best neurologist in Gurgaon for the diagnosis or treatment of brain tumours. They can also guide you on various aspects related to the line of treatment that will be followed and answer all the concerns that you may have regarding the procedure. Bookmark our blog page or follow us on social media to keep a tab on the latest developments in the medical world or to read some interesting content on health and lifestyle.
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