Astrocytomas are types of brain tumors that usually grow slowly and irregularly from abnormal, star-shaped cells. Because of the way the cells progress, children with astrocytomas need to be monitored closely, according to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Children with astrocytomas may develop an unusually large head as a result of pressure from the tumor. Astrocytoma brain tumors are rated on a level of one to four, with one the least serious and four the most.
Well-Differentiated
Well-differentiated astrocytomas are rated at a low grade --- grade 1 or 2. In children, these are often slow-growing, benign tumors, and, according to Cancer Research UK, if the tumor can be completely removed, the child has a 96% chance of living at least five years; removal may even cure the cancer. Treatment includes surgery to remove as much as the tumor as possible, and periodic monitoring to watch for tumor regrowth.
Anaplastic
Anaplastic astrocytomas are rated at a grade 3. They grow more rapidly than low-grade tumors, and contain malignant cells, according to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. For infants under a year old, prognosis is very poor, but in children older than a year, 73% survive at least five years. Teenagers with anaplastic astrocytomas see a survival rate comparable to adults, with 10% surviving after five years. Treatment includes surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, supplementation, and diet changes.
Glioblastoma Multiforme
Glioblastoma multiforme astrocytoma is a rapidly progressing, aggressive form of brain cancer. Cancer Research UK notes that only about 20% of children diagnosed with this grade-4 astrocytoma live for more than five years --- though only 6% of adults given the same diagnosis survive as long. Treatment includes surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, supplementation, and diet changes.
