Understanding Brain Tumors in Children: Signs, Diagnosis, and Hope – Article by India’s Topmost Paediatric Neuro Oncologist

“He Was Just Having Headaches. We Didn’t Know It Was a Brain Tumor.”

No parent is prepared to hear the words “your child has a brain tumor.”

It’s every family’s nightmare.

But here’s what many don’t realize: childhood brain tumors are treatable—and even curable—when caught early.

Healthcare International Is Transforming Treatment for Brain Tumor.

Healthcare International Network helped children from across the world access advanced diagnostics, expert care, and family-centered treatment for brain tumors. This blog will help you recognize the signs, understand the options, and most importantly—keep hope alive.

What Is a Brain Tumor in a Child?

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in a child’s brain or spinal cord. Some are benign (non-cancerous) while others are malignant (cancerous), but both can be life-threatening if they press on important brain structures.

Common Types of Pediatric Brain Tumors

1. Medulloblastoma – Most common cancerous brain tumor in kids
2. Astrocytoma – Ranges from low-grade (slow-growing) to high-grade (aggressive)
3. Ependymoma – Tumor in brain/spinal cord lining
4. Brainstem Glioma – Harder to treat; affects coordination and speech
5. Craniopharyngioma – Benign but affects hormones and vision

The type and location of the tumor determine the symptoms, treatment, and outlook.

Warning Signs to Never Ignore

Symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for something minor—until they’re not.

Watch for:

• Persistent morning headaches, especially with vomiting
• Balance problems, clumsiness, or trouble walking
• Balance problems, clumsiness, or trouble walking
• Sudden vision changes or eye movements
• Seizures, even if brief or first-time
• Personality or behavior changes
• Unexplained fatigue or drowsiness
• Delayed development in young children                        

 symptoms are ongoing, insist on a neurological exam. Early MRI or CT scans can save a life.

 

How Brain Tumors Are Diagnosed

At HCI, we follow a step-by-step, child-friendly approach:

1. Neurological Exam – To assess coordination, reflexes, vision
2. Imaging (MRI or CT Scan) – To locate and size the tumor
3. Biopsy or Surgical Resection – To determine tumor type
4. Molecular & Genetic Testing – For precision treatment planning

We also offer PET-CT, functional MRI, and intraoperative neuromonitoring for advanced cases.

Treatment Options at HCI

Each child’s treatment is customized by a multidisciplinary pediatric neuro-oncology team.

·       Surgery – To remove the tumor safely

·       Radiation therapy – Usually for older children; advanced techniques like Proton

                                  Therapy or CyberKnife minimize damage

·       Chemotherapy – Often used in younger kids or for tumors that can’t be removed

·       Targeted & Immunotherapy – In select cases with genetic markers

At HCI, our focus is not just curing cancer—but preserving your child’s brain development, learning ability, and quality of life.

Supporting Families Every Step of the Way

We know brain tumor care isn't just medical—it's emotional, financial, and logistical too.

HCI provides:

      ·       Child Life Specialists to help explain treatment           

      ·       Family accommodation near the hospital  

      ·       Nutritional support & psychological counselling

      ·       Play therapy and physiotherapy

      ·       International second opinions & virtual consultations                                            

      Why Families from 20+ Countries Choose HCI

       ·       Pediatric neurosurgery team with global expertise

       ·       India’s top neuro-oncology centers under one roof

       ·       Personalized, affordable packages

       ·      24/7 parent support services

       ·      Post-treatment rehab and remote follow-up

Patient Experience with HCI:

When 9-year-old Chidi from Nigeria started complaining of constant headaches, his parents thought it was just stress from school. Weeks later, the shocking diagnosis of a brain tumor turned their world upside down. At Healthcare International, they finally received a clear explanation, advanced scans, and a treatment plan that gave them hope. Today, Chidi is recovering well. “We never imagined headaches could mean something so serious—HCI helped us catch it before it was too late,” his parents shared.                                                     

·       If your child is having unexplained headaches, vision issues, or developmental delays—don't wait.

The earlier a brain tumor is diagnosed, the better the outcome.

At HCI, we blend science with compassion to give every child a fighting chance.

Call, Message or WhatsApp us for appointments.

Healthcare International, your trusted partner for the best medical treatments