Question
What Are the Dangers of Pediatric Optic Nerve Gliomas?
Answer
Increased intracranial pressure, which can be caused by the tumor directly compressing the meninges, blood vessels, and nerves, or by stretching due to traction. This is common in the vast majority of patients and is an early symptom that worsens as the tumor expands. 2) Vomiting: Often due to increased intracranial pressure stimulating the vomiting center in the medulla and the vagus nerve being compressed or stretched. Severe headaches can lead to secondary neuron vomiting, often manifested as jet-like (projectile vomiting). Children with posterior fossa tumors may experience vomiting earlier and more frequently, which is easily mistaken for gastrointestinal disease. Visual impairments: Include changes in vision, field of vision, and fundus of the eye. Both can be caused by increased intracranial pressure leading to swelling of the optic nerve head or direct compression of the optic nerve by the tumor, which over time can cause optic nerve atrophy and affect vision.