Experts note that brain tumors can occur in any period of life, regardless of age, and point out that the symptoms vary according to age.
Stating that abnormal growth of the skull structure, especially in the first 2 years of life, is a serious symptom, experts note that other symptoms such as gait disturbances, vomiting and headaches should be taken into consideration. Experts emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and recommend consulting a specialist.
Üsküdar University NPISTANBUL Hospital Brain, Nerve and Spinal Cord Surgeon Prof. Dr. Mustafa Bozbuğa made explanations about brain tumors that occur in childhood.
Uncontrolled proliferating cells cause tumors
Stating that the brain, or more broadly the nervous system, is undoubtedly the most complex structure in our body, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Bozbuğa continued his words as follows
"In parallel with its function, its anatomical and physiological structure is extremely diverse. Accordingly, it contains a large number of cells. Each cell has very different functions that may even vary according to the need. These cells are cells whose construction and destruction are completely under control and proceed within a certain plan, program and code. During the course of normal life, there may be a problem in the production and destruction of these cells, that is, in their proliferation. They can proliferate uncontrollably. In this case, masses appear in the brain or spinal cord that should not be there and are constantly multiplying. We actually call these masses tumors. Although tumor has a broader meaning, it is used synonymously with cancers or neoplasms, which are new formations in medicine. In short, it means the uncontrolled proliferation of masses that should not be in the head or spinal cord."
Brain tumors can occur at any age
Pointing out that brain tumors can occur throughout life, Bozbuğa said, "In other words, a brain tumor can be seen in a baby in the womb or in a person in his 80s or 90s. However, the types of tumors that occur according to age vary. They can be in different locations and show different courses and results. For example, childhood brain tumors, which we call pediatric, are extremely common. They constitute 20 percent of solitary tumors, that is, tumors that form a mass, which means the second most common cancer group after leukemia."
Tumor symptoms vary according to age
Bozbuğa said that the symptoms actually vary depending on the age at which they occur in childhood, "In young children, the head has the capacity to grow. For example, in children in their first year of life, since the bones of the head are not yet fully united, the openings between the bones open and do not close, allowing the head to grow even more and make room for the tumor. This causes the picture we call increased intracranial pressure syndrome to occur later."
Pay attention to these symptoms!
Bozbuğa said that epilepsy attacks can occur due to dysfunctions in the location of the tumor or by stimulating and affecting the adjacent brain tissue and continued his words as follows: "The tumor can cause walking disorders in older children. In the first 2 years of life, the head starts to grow abnormally, restlessness, constant crying, tension, not eating, not sleeping or oversleeping after a while, although the skull bones are not fused, a more severe picture can be seen as a result of increased pressure in the head after a while. Symptoms such as affecting all vital functions, respiratory functions and consciousness of the child occur. Walking disorders, vomiting, headaches and some brain dysfunctions, loss of strength, visual disturbances, hormonal disorders, excessive weight gain or excessive weight loss, excessive water drinking may also occur in children who start to talk and walk. These symptoms should be a warning. In case of any of these serious symptoms, the child should definitely be taken to a doctor. Early diagnosis is extremely important in terms of diagnosis, treatment and getting a good result."
