How are brain and spinal cord tumors in children diagnosed?
Brain and spinal cord tumors are usually found because of signs
or symptoms a child is having. If a tumor is suspected, tests
will be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Signs and symptoms of
brain and spinal cord tumors Signs and symptoms from brain and
spinal cord tumors may occur gradually and become worse over
time, or they may happen suddenly. Tumors in any part of the
brain may raise the pressure inside the skull (known as
intracranial pressure). This can be caused by growth of the
tumor, swelling in the brain, or blockage of the flow of
cerebrospinal fluid. Increased pressure can lead to general
symptoms such as: - Crossed eyes or blurred vision - Balance
problems - Behavior changes - Drowsiness or even coma Headaches
that get worse over time are a common symptom of brain tumors.
However, not all brain tumors cause headaches, and most
headaches are not caused by tumors. In some children, seizures
are the first symptom of a brain tumor. Most seizu