[Manifestations of thalamic tumors in children]

On the basis of observation of 11 cases of thalamic tumours in children at various age the author discusses differences in symptoms and signs in relation to the same tumours in adults. The first pathological sign was most frequently hemiparesis without, however, typical characteristics of classical spastic hemiparesis. Later on various involuntary movements appeared, most frequently bilaterally. In half of these cases infection, vaccination, cranial trauma or excessive effort were the factors provoking the appearance of first symptoms. Typical symptoms of raised intracranial pressure developed late and were present in some cases only. The course of the disease was chronic, the survival time up to several years. The results of vertebral angiography were of decisive significance for the diagnosis. Carotid angiography showed only internal hydrocephalus without giving any more detailed clues as to the location of the process.