What is a Cerebellar Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma (JPA)?


Children with an inherited genetic syndrome termed Neurofibromatosis Type I are at higher risk of developing tumors of glial origin, including cerebellar low-grade gliomas. The majority of  children with cerebellar JPAs developed these tumors spontaneously and have no identifiable cause for the tumor.

What are the symptoms of Cerebellar Astrocytoma?
Due to the slow growth rate of cerebellar JPAs, children will often have months to years of symptoms before presenting to the doctor.  Cerebellar JPAs are located in close proximity to the 4th ventricle, therefore 90% will present with obstructive hydrocephalus (headache, vomiting (often early morning), poor balance and lethargy).  Most children have difficulty with balance and coordination.  They can also complain of double vision and torticollis (turning the head to one side).

How is Cerebellar Astrocytoma diagnosed?
Diagnostic procedures for a cerebellar JPA include an MRI to better define the location of the tumor. A surgical biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis.

How is Cerebellar Astrocytoma treated?
The initial treatment for cerebellar JPA is surgery, with the goal to completely remove the tumor.  The majority of JPAs are able to be completely removed safety.  Complete tumor removal is associated with a very high rate of cure. In cases where the tumor recurs after initial complete surgery, or if the tumor re-grows after partial surgical removal, the recommended treatment would be a second attempt at surgical removal of the tumor.  Although cerebellar JPAs are responsive to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, it is extremely rare for a cerebellar JPA to require any treatment other than surgical removal.  The majority of patients treated for a cerebellar JPA are cured of their disease following the first surgery.

About treatment for Cerebellar Astrocytom at Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota


If you are a family member looking for a Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota neuro-oncologist, please call our clinic at 612-813-5940.


Additional information on Cerebellar Astrocytoma

For additional information, check out these web sites: