Medulloblastoma Treatment

In general, medulloblastoma treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and cerebrospinal fluid diversion. The doctor and patient often work together to develop a medulloblastoma treatment plan that is based on the type of medulloblastoma, the size and location of the tumor, the medulloblastoma risk group, and the patient's age and general health.

 

Medulloblastoma Treatment: An Overview

Medulloblastoma treatment options vary based on:
 
  • The type of medulloblastoma
  • The size and location of the tumor
  • The medulloblastoma risk group (see Medulloblastoma Risk Groups)
  • The patient's age and general health.
     
In general, medulloblastoma treatment options can include:
 
  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Cerebrospinal fluid diversion.
     
Your doctor can describe your child's medulloblastoma treatment choices and the expected results of each. Parents of children with medulloblastoma should work with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that meets the child's medical needs and the family's personal values. Choosing medulloblastoma treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, the family, and the healthcare team.
 

Healthcare Providers Involved in Medulloblastoma Treatment

There are usually several healthcare providers involved in a person's medulloblastoma treatment. For children, a pediatric oncologist will oversee care. The doctor may refer patients to doctors who specialize in treating medulloblastoma, or patients may ask for a referral. Specialists who treat medulloblastoma include:
 
  • Neurosurgeon
  • Neurologist
  • Neuropathologist
  • Neuroradiologist
  • Rehabilitation specialist
  • Medical oncologist
  • Radiation oncologist
  • Psychologist.
     
Children with medulloblastoma may also need tutors to help with schoolwork.
 
(Medulloblastoma Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD