Question
Is severe hydrocephalus and an enlarged head in children possible signs of a tumor?
Answer
According to the MRI diagnosis report, an abnormal mass approximately 2.5CM x 2.3CM x 2.5CM in size was found in the child’s brain, with unclear edge contours, leading to a decrease in the size of the fourth ventricle and enlargement of the third and lateral ventricles. Additionally, the child is a premature baby who had birth injuries at birth. Currently, in addition to the head enlargement, there are frequent vomiting and dizziness symptoms. The delivery hospital had previously suspected that the child might have medulloblastoma. For such a young patient, no matter which hospital performs the surgery, there is no guarantee of complete cure, and postoperative chemotherapy is usually required. In terms of treating pediatric brain tumors, Southern Hospital is particularly prominent, while Beijing and Shanghai also have top doctors. However, comprehensive consideration is needed for the child’s treatment, including surgical care, hydrocephalus management, and tumor recurrence control, which will consume a lot of time, energy, and money. Some doctors suggest giving up treatment due to the uncertainty of the process. This is a very difficult decision for both the child patient and their parents.