[Childhood brain tumors]

Abstract

Brain tumors are the second most common pediatric neoplastic disease after leukemias. As causes of mortality and morbidity they add up to the most significant group of tumors. Treatment is based on thorough surgical excision of the tumor. Additional treatment with cytotoxic agents and radiotherapy is applied to malignant tumors. Treatment results have improved so that approximately three children out of four will make complete recovery from brain tumor. Long-term problems are, however, common and often significantly weakening the quality of life.