Astrocytoma is a type of tumor arising from astrocytes, which are a type of glial cell in the brain. Astrocytomas can affect people of any age, but they are most common in children. Cerebellar astrocytomas develop in the part of the brain responsible for balance, posture and movement. This type of astrocytoma accounts for nearly one-quarter of all childhood brain tumors, according to the National Cancer Institute. Most astrocytoma tumors grow slowly, and not all patients will develop symptoms.
Intracranial Pressure
Most astrocytoma symptoms are a direct result of increasing intracranial pressure as the tumor grows. In many cases, these symptoms are the only ones to develop and are typically the reason for seeking medical evaluation and diagnosis. Headache, nausea, vomiting, lethargy and drowsiness are all symptoms resulting from increased pressure in the brain. Headaches, which are often the first symptom to appear, are usually worse at night, in the early morning and during strenuous physical activity. Lethargy may be so pronounced as to cause nearly round-the-clock sleeping.
Localized Brain Dysfunction
Some symptoms of astrocytoma result from compression on localized areas of the brain by the growing tumor. These symptoms vary widely, and depend on what part of the brain is affected. According to Cedars-Sinai Health System, localized symptoms of astrocytoma tumors may include impaired cognition, obtuseness, disordered conduct and personality changes in approximately 25 percent of those affected. Weakness in the extremities, memory loss, blurred vision and language impairment are other symptoms of localized brain dysfunction. Seizures are the most common symptom of localized brain compression.
Symptoms More Common in Children
Children may experience a few distinctive symptoms when suffering from astrocytoma tumors. Growing pressure in the skull may lead to an enlarged head, and swelling may develop in the back of the eye. Overall development and growth is often affected due to localized brain compression and the resulting impairment in cognition, vision and language. Children with astrocytoma may also exhibit worsening handwriting, difficulty walking and maintaining balance, and slow speech.
