Surgical management of pediatric brain tumors

Brain tumors are the most common cause of cancer-related death and the second most common form of cancer in pediatric patients. Many of these tumors are treated primarily with surgery, either alone or in combination with radiation or chemotherapy. Recent advances have lead to greater survival and decreased morbidities in childhood brain tumor patients. A full understanding of the biology and primary treatment modalities for the particular tumor are essential for any professional treating these patients, including the neurosurgeon. Each tumor type has features in common with, and unique from, other tumors that need to be understood prior to undertaking a rational treatment plan. This article summarizes some of these features.