What are Brain and Spinal (CNS) Tumours?
CNS tumours are cancers that develop in the brain or spinal cord. Because these areas control many different functions, symptoms depend on exactly where the tumour forms. Some tumours grow slowly while others develop more quickly.
CNS tumours can occur at any age in childhood. Treatment is planned carefully by specialist teams to protect the child’s developing brain and to give the best possible outcome.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the tumour’s location and may include:
- persistent or severe headaches
- feeling sick, especially in the morning
- balance problems or clumsiness
- seizures
- changes in vision or hearing
- weakness on one side of the body
- behaviour or personality changes
- neck stiffness (more common with spinal tumours)
These symptoms can also be caused by many other, far more common childhood conditions and do not necessarily mean cancer.
How is it Diagnosed?
If a CNS tumour is suspected, your child will be referred urgently to a specialist centre. Tests may include:
- MRI or CT scans – to show the location and size of the tumour
- neurological examination – to check strength, coordination and reflexes
- blood tests – to help with overall assessment
- biopsy – sometimes needed to confirm the exact tumour type
These results help the team plan the most effective treatment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the tumour type, size and position. It may include one or more of the following:
-
Surgery
Where possible, surgeons remove as much of the tumour as safely as they can. Some tumours can be removed completely, while others require a more cautious approach to protect vital brain functions. -
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be used to shrink the tumour or treat any remaining cancer cells. Younger children may receive more chemotherapy to delay or reduce the need for radiotherapy. -
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It may be used after surgery or if surgery isn’t possible. Treatment is carefully planned to minimise long-term side effects. -
Targeted or Biological Therapies
Some tumours have specific genetic or molecular features that allow targeted medicines to be used. These treatments act on the cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue as much as possible.
Supportive Care
Throughout treatment your child may receive:
- medicines for sickness, headaches or swelling
- physiotherapy or occupational therapy
- psychological support
- vision or hearing support if needed
- help with learning and schoolwork
Supportive care helps children stay as well and comfortable as possible.
Monitoring Response
Scans, neurological assessments and follow-up tests are used throughout treatment to monitor response and adjust the care plan if needed.
Outlook & Support
Outcomes for CNS tumours vary depending on the exact tumour type, but many children respond well to treatment. Advances in surgery, imaging and targeted therapies continue to improve results.
During treatment your child will be cared for by a specialist children’s cancer team. Help is available with managing side effects, school, emotional wellbeing and practical concerns.
Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund will support your whole family from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond.
Key Facts
- Common Age: Can occur at any age in childhood
- Survival: Varies widely by tumour type; many children respond well to treatment
- How common? Brain and spinal tumours are the second most common childhood cancer
