Which type of brain tumor is most common in children?

Medulloblastoma is recognized as the most common type of brain tumor in children. This tumor is classified as a primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) and typically arises in the cerebellum. Medulloblastomas are particularly prevalent in the age group of children between 4 to 8 years old and are known for their aggressive nature and propensity to metastasize through the cerebrospinal fluid.

Medulloblastomas present with symptoms resulting from increased intracranial pressure, such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and can also lead to cerebellar dysfunction manifesting as ataxia or difficulties with coordination. Given their typical location in the posterior fossa, they can obstruct the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, resulting in hydrocephalus, which is crucial for clinicians to recognize and manage promptly.

While other types of brain tumors, such as craniopharyngiomas and astrocytomas, can occur in children, they are not as common as medulloblastomas. Craniopharyngiomas, though they can present in younger patients, are more often associated with disturbances in growth and hormonal function due to their location affecting the pituitary gland. Astrocytomas can also occur in children, but