Navigating Pediatric Brain Tumors

Tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) pose a significant health challenge due to their high morbidity and mortality rates across all ages. In children, brain tumors are the second most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, accounting for approximately a quarter of childhood cancers. Despite moderate increases in survival rates for children with CNS tumors in recent decades, these tumors remain the second leading cause of cancer death in children under 20, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently published the fifth edition of its Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System (WHO CNS5). This updated framework incorporates molecular data alongside histology to classify CNS tumors, grouping them into entities that are more biologically and molecularly defined, with better-characterized natural histories. The classification introduces new tumor types and subtypes, particularly in the pediatric population. This book provides a thorough overview of how to manage pediatric central nervous system tumors, offering not only a detailed analysis of the medical aspects of CNS tumors but also guidance on how families and caregivers can cope with the disease. It also presents a detailed analysis of the molecular landscape of these tumors, including the role of molecular testing in diagnosing and monitoring these tumors, as well as the challenges and limitations of implementing such analyses in clinical practice. The book is further enriched by personal stories from children and families affected by the disease and includes practical advice on navigating the healthcare system, along with resources for emotional support. Last but not least, it also explores emerging innovative therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapy, gene therapy, and targeted drug therapies, addressing their application in pediatric CNS tumors as well as associated challenges, ethical considerations, and regulatory hurdles. This text will serve as an invaluable resource for physicians, researchers, patient advocates, and other healthcare professionals involved in the treatment and support of children affected by CNS tumors and their families.