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Subject Area

Neurosurgery

Document Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to present the authors' experience in managing 20 cases of pediatric thalamic brain tumors. Background: Thalamic tumors constitute a small percentage (approximately 0.84-5.2%) of all brain tumors and are even rarer in the pediatric population, accounting for about 2-5% of pediatric brain tumors. These tumors present a significant challenge to neurosurgeons due to their intricate location within the brain and their proximity to crucial structures, especially in children. The management of these tumors necessitates careful consideration and expertise due to the potential risks associated with their critical position. Patients and Methods: In this retrospective study, the authors analyzed the cases of 20 pediatric patients with thalamic brain tumors who were admitted to Menoufia University Hospital and Children's Hospital of Cairo University between 2020 and 2022. The study focused on investigating the surgical interventions performed in relation to different histopathological subtypes of the tumors, tumor size, patient age, and presenting symptoms. Conclusion: Thalamic brain tumors in pediatric patients are mainly low-grade pilocytic astrocytomas. Symptoms include increased intracranial pressure and contralateral weakness. Adjuvant therapy, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, has limited effectiveness in preventing disease progression but improves overall survival. Surgical excision benefits low-grade tumors, while stereotactic biopsy is preferred for diagnosis and guiding management decisions.

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Role of Surgery in the Prognosis of Pediatric Thalamic Tumors 2.pdf (798 kB)
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