Long-term functional outcome of surgical treatment of juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma of the cerebellum in children.

PURPOSE

Increasing incidence of pediatric brain tumors and improving survival rates encouraged us to assess long-term functional outcome of patients with cerebellar juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma (JPA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our study encompassed 105 children treated since 1980-2005 and consisted in analysis of mailed, custom-designed questionnaires.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up time was 8.3 years. Sixty out of 104 patients presented permanent neurological deficits and 47/104 presented significant behavioral disorders. Eighty-nine children continued their education at primary, secondary or high school level. Most patients and their parents were satisfied with treatment outcome. Patients' and parents' notes were usually concordant.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term functional treatment outcome of cerebellar JPA is relatively favorable, in spite of permanent neurological deficits and emotional disorders in over half of the patients. Vermian tumors are associated with worse long-term functional outcome. Neurological deficits and emotional disorders do not preclude further education and independent functioning.