Advances in the management of pediatric central nervous system tumors

Abstract

Central nervous system tumors are the most common pediatric solid tumors and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity in this age group. Survival rates have improved significantly over the last decades for most of the tumor types, as a consequence of improvements in neuroimaging, neurosurgery and neuroanesthesia, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The complexity of the management of these patients requires a multidisciplinary approach and has led to the emergence of a new subspecialty of pediatric neuro-oncologists who are dedicated to the management and follow-up of this population. This review highlights the most critical advances in the diagnostic and treatment modalities of pediatric brain tumors. A specific review of the most common tumor types discusses treatment options, controversies, and ongoing developments, with an emphasis on cooperative trials.