Treatment Options For An Ependymoma

An ependymoma is a tumor that forms in the spinal cord or brain. The tumor begins in the ependymal cells of the nervous system. These cells line the passageways that allow cerebrospinal fluid to flow. Though an ependymoma can occur in patients of any age, most cases involve children. Patients might have seizures and headaches. The diagnosis of an ependymoma is done through a neurological exam, imaging tests, and a lumbar puncture. With a lumbar puncture, fluid is drawn from the spinal cord and tested for tumor cells. There are a few treatment options, with surgery generally being the first course of action.