CHILDHOOD BRAIN & SPINAL CORD TUMORS

There are many types of childhood brain and spinal cord tumors. The tumors are formed by the abnormal growth of cells and may begin in different areas of the brain or spinal cord.The tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Benign brain tumors grow and press on nearby areas of the brain. They rarely spread into other tissues. 

Malignant brain tumors are likely to grow quickly and spread into other brain tissue. When a tumor grows into or presses on an area of the brain, it may stop that part of the brain from working the way it should. Both benign and malignant brain tumors can cause signs or symptoms and need treatment.Together, the brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system (CNS).

Source: Childhood Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version originally published by the National Cancer Institute