The exact cell of origin is not known. Tumors that have the same characteristics can also arise in other parts of the brain. This tumor type has a tendency to spread to other areas of the brain and spinal cord. Incidence Medulloblastoma accounts for about 20 percent of childhood brain tumors. These tumors are slightly more common in males than in females.
Most patient have a history of headache and morning vomiting, which gets worse with time.
Because of the tumor s location, patients may also have clumsiness and problems with tasks like handwriting. There is usually a gradual decline in school performance. Rarely patients can have visual loss at diagnosis. If the tumor has spread to the spinal cord, symptoms may include back pain, difficulty walking and inability to control bladder and bowel functions. Treatment strategies Surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are used to treat medulloblastoma.