What is a Brainstem glioma?
These are primary brain tumours that arise from glial cells within the brainstem. It is arguably the most vital part of the brain in that it is the relay station for all messages that travel between the brain proper and the spinal cord. It also contains the centre that controls breathing, swallowing, eye movement, facial expression, and many more important functions. Previously, tumours in this region were all considered “inoperable”. Now, most paediatric neurosurgeons realise that to lump all brainstem tumours together under the one heading is inaccurate.
