Medulloblastoma is a type of brain tumor that is most common in children, although it can occur in adults. It originates in the cerebellum or posterior fossa, the lower part of the brain involved in coordinating movement and balance. Symptoms of medulloblastoma can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, but common symptoms include:
- Headaches: Often worse in the morning and may improve throughout the day.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Frequently occurring in the morning.
- Balance and Coordination Problems: Difficulty walking, clumsiness, and unsteadiness.
- Visual Disturbances: Double vision or other vision problems.
- Behavioral Changes: Irritability, lethargy, or changes in personality.
- Dizziness: Sensations of spinning or lightheadedness.
- Difficulty with Fine Motor Skills: Trouble with tasks that require precision, such as writing.
- Seizures: Less common but can occur.
In children, additional symptoms can include:
- Failure to Thrive: Difficulty gaining weight or growing normally.
- Developmental Delays: Slower than normal development of motor or cognitive skills.
If you persistently experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult your healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, order diagnostic tests or imaging studies to determine the cause of these symptoms. At GW Cancer Center, you’ll be seen by doctors and surgeons who rank among the top neuro-oncology experts in the Washington, DC, region.
