[Brain stem tumors in children]

Gliomas involving the brain stem represent 10% of pediatric central nervous system neoplasms. They result in multiple cranial nerve involvement, long tracts signs, cerebellar signs, usually with no evidence of raising in intracranial pressure. The diagnosis is established by computed tomographic scan and magnetic resonance imaging. Classic management consists in conventional radiation therapy but the prognosis is very dismal with a five year survival rate about 30%.