A choroid plexus carcinoma begins near the brain tissue that secretes #cerebrospinal fluid. A noncancerous tumor of this area is called a #choroid_plexus_papilloma. As the tumor grows, it can affect the function of nearby structures in the brain, causing excess fluid in the brain (#hydrocephalus), irritability, nausea or vomiting, and headaches.
Treatment and chance of recovery (#prognosis) depend on the tumor’s size, location, whether it has spread, and your child’s age and general health.
#Diagnosis
A choroid plexus carcinoma most often occurs in children under 2 years old. Tests and procedures used to diagnose choroid plexus carcinoma include:
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Physical exam. Diagnosing a choroid plexus carcinoma usually starts with a medical history review and a #neurological exam. During this procedure, your child’s vision, hearing, balance, coordination and reflexes are tested.
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Brain imaging tests. Tests to create images of your brain may include magnetic resonance imaging (#MRI) and computerized tomography (#CT). An MRI also helps your doctor to plan the surgery.
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Genetic tests. Tests to identify genetic aspects of some choroid plexus carcinomas are available.
Treatment in #children usually differs from treatment in #adults. If your child receives a diagnosis of choroid plexus carcinoma, ask your doctor to refer you to a specialist in treating children with brain tumors (#pediatric_neuro-oncologist, #pediatric_radiation_oncologist).
Treatment
- Surgery
- Radition therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Clinical trials. Clinical trials are studies of new treatments or new ways of using existing treatments