Brain tumour

Brain tumours are the second most common tumour in children, with more than 30 new cases in Hong Kong every year. Similar to other tumours, brain tumours mostly result from genetic changes or mutations in cells in the central nervous system. 

Brain tumours are classified as either malignant or benign. 

Three types of malignant brain tumours are found in children: Glioma tumours, which originate from supportive cells in the brain called astrocytes or oligodendroglia cells; medulloblastoma tumours, which originate from embryonic tissues and usually occur in the cerebellum; and, germ cell tumours, which come from primordial germ cells and are especially prevalent among Chinese or East Asian children. Over 90% of low-grade glioma tumours, 70% to 80% of medulloblastoma tumours and around 90% of germ cell tumours can be cured successfully. 

There are other types of benign tumours. The commonest one is infantile haemangioma, which is found in infants and mostly affects the head and face. Proactive treatment is recommended to avoid untoward aesthetic effect associated with this type of tumour. Other benign tumours can also be managed in our Centre such as vascular malformations and benign tumours in blood vessels.