Disease at a Glance

Childhood brain stem glioma is a rare condition in which abnormal cells develop in the tissues of the brain stem (the part of the brain connected to the spinal cord). The condition can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The severity of the condition and the associated symptoms vary based on the size and location of the tumor and how quickly the tumor is growing. Common features include difficulty walking; loss of the ability to move one side of the body or face; vision or hearing problems; headaches (particularly in the morning); nausea and vomiting; unusual sleepiness; and behavioral changes. In most cases, the underlying cause of Childhood brain stem glioma is unknown. Certain genetic conditions, such as neurofibromatosis type I, are associated with an increased risk of childhood brainstem glioma.
Estimated Number of People with this Disease

This section is currently in development.

What Information Does GARD Have For This Disease?


*Data may be currently unavailable to GARD at this time.
When do symptoms of this disease begin?
This section is currently in development. 




This section is currently in development. 

Next Steps

Talking with the Medical Team


Describing Symptoms


To help describe a symptom:

  • Describe each symptom by answering the following questions:
    • When did the symptom start?
    • How often does it happen?
    • Does anything make it better or worse?
  • Tell the medical team whether any symptoms affect daily activities

Preparing for the First Visit


    Make informed decisions about health care: 
    • Prepare a list of questions and concerns before the appointment
    For future appointments:
    • Discuss what was not addressed at the last visit
    Take notes during the appointments to help remember what was discussed.

    Last Updated: Nov. 8, 2021