Ependymomas

Abstract

Pediatric posterior fossa tumors are usually ependymoma, pilocytic astrocytoma, or medulloblastoma. Ependymoma appears well-demarcated with heterogeneous enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Full neural axis MRI is indicated to assess for metastatic disease. Management is typically surgical resection of the tumor, with consideration for cerebrospinal fluid diversion if patients present with severe hydrocephalus. Extent of resection of the tumor is the most important factor in predicting recurrence and overall survival, and gross total resection is ideal. Infratentorial ependymomas have 2 molecular subtypes, which has implications for responsiveness to adjuvant therapy and prognosis. Infratentorial ependymomas are biologically different from supratentorial ependymomas. Postoperative radiation improves local control.