Brainstem glioma

The term brainstem glioma refers to a histologically heterogeneous group of pediatric neoplasms, with generally a bad prognosis. The medium survival rate is 4 to 15 months. Most brainstem gliomas involve the pons (50%) and the medulla (30%). They mostly are diffusely infiltrating and extend to the thalamus, medulla or cerebellar hemispheres. Encasement of the basilar artery by the tumor is frequent. Hydrocephalus tends to develop quite late. Exophytic tumors can be resected more easily and therefore may have a better prognosis.

On MRI, the lesion displays lengthening of T1 and T2. The pons is expanded with posterior displacement of the fourth ventricle. Enhancement can be marked.

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Brainstem glioma

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