What is a cerebellar astrocytoma? Cerebellar astrocytoma makes
up approximately 15 to 25 percent of brain tumors seen in
children. This type of tumor arises from astrocytes, which are
cells that make up the supportive tissue of the brain. A
cerebelllar astrocytoma forms in the cerebellum at the lower
back of the brain. The cerebellum controls movement, balance and
coordination. What are the symptoms of cerebellar astrocytoma?
The usual signs of cerebella astrocytoma include loss of
balance, problems with walking, headaches (especially in the
morning), vomiting and sleepiness. How is cerebellar astrocytoma
diagnosed? The diagnosis of cerebellar astrocytoma is made
through a CT scan, MRI scan and surgical biopsy. How is
cerebellar astrocytoma treated? Treatment for astrocytoma
involves the surgical removal of the bulk, or majority, of the
tumor. If the tumor can't be totally removed, additional
treatment might be needed. The pathologist, the doctor who looks
at the tumor tissue with a microscope, will grade the