Does your child often get headaches? Or have you noticed any changes in your little one's development? Sometimes these can be normal. However, sometimes there may be something behind them that needs some concern. Today we are going to talk about a condition that can develop in such children, but we have not heard much about it, and it can be a bit serious. That is embryonic tumors, or `(Embryonal Tumors)`. Don't worry, we will talk about everything in a simple way.
What are these embryonic tumors? Let's understand exactly?
Simply put, an embryonal tumor is a brain tumor that develops from rapidly growing cells. These cells come from cells left over from when a child was in the womb, that is, during the embryonic stage. These embryonic cells, called ``Embryonic cells,`` have a very important function in the early stages of a child's body's development. But sometimes, even after the child is born, some of these embryonic cells can remain in the brain. It is these leftover cells that begin to develop into embryonal tumors.
These tumors affect children the most. Some are cancerous, meaning they can be dangerous (malignant). Others are noncancerous, meaning they can be harmless (benign). Most often, they develop in the brain. They can also sometimes develop along the spinal cord. The most dangerous thing is that these tumors can spread through the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the watery fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. The most dangerous types can spread very rapidly and be life-threatening.
Your doctor may also call these embryonal tumors or ``Embryomas.'' In the past, these were called ``Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor (PNET)''.
Are there types of embryonal cancer? What are they?
Yes, these embryonic tumors are also divided into different types. The most common type is called ``Medulloblastoma.`` This develops in a part called the ``Cerebellum.`` That is, in the back, bottom part of your child's brain.
There are other types of embryonal tumors that are not ``Medulloblastoma''. They are:
- `(Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor - AT/RT)`: This also develops in the cerebellum (back of the brain).
- `(Embryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes - ETMRs)`: This is classified as `(C19MC-altered)` or `(NOS - not otherwise specified)`. It develops in the `(Cerebrum)` (that is, the largest part at the top and front of the brain) and the spinal cord.
- `(Medulloepithelioma)`: This develops in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves outside the spinal cord. These are very fast-growing, aggressive cancers. They often develop in very young children, and the chances of recovery are low.
- Central nervous system neuroblastoma: This develops in the layers of tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord and in the nerve tissue of the cerebellum.
- Cribriform neuroepithelial tumor: This develops in the fluid-filled cavities (ventricles) inside the brain.
How common are these cancers? Who is more likely to get them?
According to US statistics, these embryonic tumors account for about 12% of all brain tumors in children aged 0 to 14. Among them, the type we talked about earlier, ``Medulloblastoma``, is the most common - that is, more than 68% of all embryonic tumors. ``Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors - AT/RT`` account for about 17%.
These cancers are most common in infants and young children. Although they can occur in adults, they are rare. For example, the type `(AT/RT)` is more common in boys under 3 years of age. The type `(ETMRs)` is more common in girls under 4 years of age.
What are the symptoms of fetal cancer? Check to see if your child has these
The symptoms of brain tumors can vary from person to person. They depend on the age of the child, the type of tumor, and where it is in the brain. However, there are some common symptoms that can be seen:
- Headache, especially in the morning.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Feeling tired, fatigued, and sleepy all the time.
- Visual impairment (e.g. blurred vision, double vision).
- Seizures.
Imagine, your little one isn't running around and playing like he used to, he's always saying "Mommy, my head hurts," and sometimes he vomits as soon as he wakes up in the morning. If these things continue, you should definitely see a doctor.
The following symptoms may also be seen in infants:
- The head becomes larger with age.
- Behavioral changes (e.g., frequent crying, irritability, restlessness).
- Losing balance while walking or running, like losing coordination.
- Not eating properly is a sign of malnutrition.
- Failure to meet developmental milestones appropriate for age (e.g., not sitting, standing, or talking in a manner appropriate for age).
Why does this embryonal cancer develop? What is the cause?
Cancer occurs when cells grow and divide abnormally, more than they should. However, researchers are still not sure why these remaining embryonic cells suddenly turn into embryonic tumors.
Are there any risk factors that affect the development of this cancer?
Yes, some hereditary conditions can increase your child's risk of developing a type of embryonic cancer called ``Medulloblastoma.'' Such conditions include:
- `(Turcot syndrome)`
- `(Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome)`
- `(Gorlin syndrome)`
- `(Li-Fraumeni syndrome)`
- `(Fanconi anemia)`
These are very rare conditions, but if someone in your family has this condition, it's important to tell your doctor.
What are the possible complications of embryonic cancer? Is it dangerous?
Complications caused by embryonal cancer can sometimes be life-threatening. Therefore, it is very important to be aware of this. The main complications that can be seen are:
- Hydrocephalus is a condition where the brain fills with fluid and pressure increases. This can damage the brain.
- Brain damage.
- Cognitive impairment - This means that the ability to think and learn is affected.
- Changes in hormonal function (Endocrinopathies).
How do doctors diagnose this type of cancer? (Diagnosis)
If your child has any of the symptoms we discussed earlier, or if you have any concerns about your child's health, see your child's doctor immediately. A doctor can diagnose fetal cancer by examining your child and performing the necessary tests.
The doctor will ask you about your child's symptoms, their health history, and whether anyone in your family has had similar illnesses.
The tests that are done to accurately confirm the disease are:
- An MRI scan.
- A `(CT)` scan.
- A lumbar puncture is a procedure that involves taking a small amount of fluid from the spine. This can also be used to see if cancer cells have spread.
- Taking a small piece of tissue from the tumor and examining it (Biopsy). This is what allows us to determine the exact type of cancer.
What is the treatment for this? Will the child recover?
Treatment for testicular cancer varies depending on many factors, including the type of cancer, the size of the tumor, and its location. Common treatment options include:
- Removal surgery is the surgical removal of the tumor.
- Radiation therapy.
- Giving anti-cancer drugs (Chemotherapy).
- Targeted Therapy (these are specific drugs).
Often, your child may need more than one treatment. For example, doctors will remove the tumor as safely as possible with surgery. Then, they may give chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells or to shrink the tumor further.
More research is being done on this type of embryonic cancer, and your child may be eligible for clinical trials to find new treatments.
It's normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed during this time of grief. Many parents find that they can find support groups or talk to a mental health counselor during this difficult time. The doctors and nurses who are treating your child will also teach you how to support and comfort your child during this time.
Are there any side effects of the treatment? What are they?
Yes, like all treatments, there can be side effects.
Possible side effects after surgery:
- Bleeding.
- Blood clot.
- Infection.
- Nerve damage.
Possible side effects of radiation and chemotherapy include (but are not limited to):
- Tired.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Hair loss.
- Skin allergies, redness.
- Headache.
Some cancers can come back even after being treated and removed.
What is the prognosis of the disease?
The course of your child's illness, i.e. the likelihood of recovery and how long it will take, depends on several things, including:
- Type of cancer.
- Where the cancer is.
- Whether the cancer has spread or not.
- The child's age.
- The results of surgery or previous treatments.
- The child's general health.
Some germ cell tumors are very aggressive, spread easily, and can come back even after treatment. Others may be benign. Your child's doctor is the best person to tell you about the prognosis.
What can be said about the child's lifespan in this situation?
It is difficult to give a definitive answer about the life expectancy of children with this condition, as it varies. For example, one study reported that about 33% of children with Medulloblastoma die from complications. For more severe embryonal tumors such as ETMRs, the average survival time after diagnosis is about 12 months.
However, your child's life expectancy may be different from that of other children with the same type of cancer. It depends on things like the size of the tumor and its location. Your child's medical team will give you the latest information about treatment options and the best current care that can improve your child's chances of survival.
When should I see a doctor?
If you notice any of these symptoms of fetal cancer in your child , be sure to see a doctor:
- If you are missing age-appropriate developmental milestones.
- If there are big changes in behavior.
- If you have difficulty eating, if you have a loss of appetite.
- If you have balance problems when walking or running.
- If you frequently feel nauseous or vomit.
Most importantly: If your child has a seizure, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately, or take them to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
What are the important questions to ask the doctor?
At a time like this, you may have many questions. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor everything that's on your mind. Here are some important questions you can ask:
- Where is the tumor?
- What kind of treatment do you recommend?
- What are the side effects of the treatments?
- How can I support my child during this treatment?
- What is the prognosis (chance of recovery) of my child's illness?
An important message for parents (Take-Home Message)
It's normal to feel scared, helpless, and anxious when you learn that your child has a life-threatening tumor. It can be difficult to bear for a child to have to undergo surgery and harsh treatments like chemotherapy at such a young age. Comforting a child at such a time can be very difficult.
But remember this: Even though this type of cancer is rare, the medical team treating your child is highly trained and experienced. They will do everything they can to minimize complications and side effects of treatment, and to provide your child with the comfort and care they need during this difficult journey.
If you're not sure what to do or how to help your child, talk to your child's doctors. They can explain your child's condition and the future outlook to you. They can also point you to other resources, such as talking to a mental health counselor or joining a support group.
During this time, it will be very helpful to surround yourself with friends and family who you trust and can talk to.
` Embryonic Tumors, Brain Tumors, Childhood Cancer, Cancer Symptoms, Cancer Treatment, Medulloblastoma
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