Brainstem Gliomas is tumors in the brainstem which is responsible for controlling vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.
It is present in the brainstem region, which connects cerebrum with the spinal cord. 

Brainstem Gliomas is composed of 10% to 15% of pediatric brain tumors and there is no such significant gender difference in incidence. 
The cause is still unknown, so no risk factors are observed, and it occurs globally but may vary across different regions. 

The pathogenesis affects to the cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis.  

The blood-brain barrier can protect drug delivery, which stops its effectiveness and causes difficulties in treatment. 

The proper causes of brainstem gliomas are not well studied. 

The histological grade of the tumor is a very important prognostic factor, and pediatric patients show better outcomes when compared with others. 

Brainstem gliomas mostly occurs in children than any other age group.  

• Neurological Examination 
• Cranial Nerves Assessment 
• Reflexes assessment 

Brainstem Gliomas has sub-acute to chronic onset, which develop gradually over weeks to months, and early diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms. 

Surgical resection is challenging due to the tumor’s location and infiltrative nature within the structure of the brainstem. 

Supportive care should include pain management such as use of corticosteroids to reduce peritumoral edema, use of antiemetics to control nausea and vomiting. 

Appointments with medical physicians and preventing recurrence of infection are ongoing, life-long efforts. 

Neurology

Patients and their families may experience psychological and emotional challenges going forward in therapy. Give psychosocial support services, including counseling, support groups, and access to mental health professionals. 

Inform patients on ways to prevent infections and what steps to take. To decrease the chances of recurrence and minimize infection sources. 

Neurology

Dexamethasone: It reduces peritumoral edema which decrease vascular permeability and inhibits the inflammatory response around the tumor. 

Neurology

In some cases, the medical surgeons perform surgical debulking procedures to reduce the size of the tumor. 

Some brainstem gliomas may have exophytic components that extend into the fourth ventricle or brainstem surface. Surgical resection of these exophytic portions may be attempted to improve cerebrospinal fluid flow, alleviate hydrocephalus, and reduce tumor burden.  

Neurology

In Initial phase, accurate diagnosis of brainstem gliomas typically involves neuroimaging studies and histological evaluation obtained through biopsy. 

Surgical intervention for brainstem gliomas includes radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. 

Regular follow-up visits with the physicians are required to check the improvement of patients and newly observed complaints, along with treatment responses.