Others Brain Tumors

Rare pediatric brain tumors are uncommon types of tumors that develop in the brain or central nervous system (CNS) of children and adolescents. Unlike more common pediatric brain tumors like medulloblastomas or pilocytic astrocytomas, these rare tumors can arise in unique brain regions, show atypical histology, or be part of genetic syndromes. These tumors often pose significant diagnostic and treatment challenges and require specialized pediatric neurosurgical expertise for effective management. In Bangladesh, where pediatric neuro-oncology infrastructure is still evolving, the diagnosis and treatment of rare brain tumors in children are often delayed. Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, a leading pediatric neurosurgeon in Bangladesh, offers cutting-edge neurosurgical care and collaborates with oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists to provide a multidisciplinary approach for optimal outcomes. Why It Matters in Bangladesh Limited centers offer specialized pediatric neuro-oncology services Many children with rare tumors are misdiagnosed due to non-specific symptoms Advanced neuroimaging, biopsy, and molecular diagnostics are underutilized Lack of awareness leads to late-stage referrals and missed opportunities for cure Families struggle to access child-focused, safe surgical care for rare tumor types Common Rare Pediatric Brain Tumors Treated Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumors (ATRT) Aggressive tumor mostly in children under 3 years; rapid growth and needs urgent surgery + chemo Choroid Plexus Tumors (Papilloma or Carcinoma) Arise in ventricles, often causing hydrocephalus; usually surgically treatable Pineoblastoma Malignant tumor of the pineal region; rare but requires gross total resection Ependymoma of Rare Sites (e.g., Brainstem or Supratentorial) Needs precision surgery to avoid brainstem damage Craniopharyngioma Variants Though not rare in location, some histologic variants are extremely rare and complex Dysembryoplastic Neuroepithelial Tumors (DNETs) Often presents with seizures; benign but may need excision for epilepsy control Chondrosarcoma or Chordoma of Skull Base Rare tumors affecting the clivus or cranial base; requires advanced skull base surgery Optic Pathway Gliomas (Atypical Forms) Can threaten vision and hormone function; seen in neurofibromatosis cases Embryonal Tumors with Multilayered Rosettes (ETMR) Extremely rare and aggressive; diagnosis often missed without molecular studies Ganglioglioma, Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) Rare, low-grade but can recur if incompletely resected Symptoms Suggesting a Rare Brain Tumor Headache with early morning vomiting Sudden visual loss or hormonal imbalances Failure to thrive, delayed development, or regression Recurrent seizures unresponsive to medication Abnormal gait, weakness, or balance issues Rapidly enlarging head size in infants Symptoms associated with genetic conditions (NF1, TSC, Li-Fraumeni syndrome) “With advanced surgical techniques and a multidisciplinary team, even rare pediatric brain tumors can be treated with precision and compassion.” — Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Diagnosis & Imaging Strategy Dr. Nafaur Rahman emphasizes early and accurate diagnosis using: MRI Brain with contrast and spectroscopy Tumor biopsy (open or stereotactic) for histopathology Molecular genetic testing where applicable CSF cytology if leptomeningeal spread is suspected Hormonal testing for hypothalamic/pituitary tumors Neurocognitive and functional assessments before planning surgery Treatment Protocol Rare tumors require personalized treatment based on tumor type, location, and child’s condition: 1. Microsurgical Tumor Resection Performed using neuro-navigation and operating microscope Aim is gross total resection while preserving function 2. CSF Diversion (Shunt or ETV) For tumors causing hydrocephalus 3. Multidisciplinary Oncology Referral Post-surgery chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for malignant types 4. Seizure and Endocrine Management If tumor affects functional brain areas 5. Follow-Up Imaging and Surveillance Regular MRI scans to monitor recurrence Rehabilitation and Supportive Care Physical therapy and motor rehabilitation Speech and cognitive therapy Educational support for children with learning delays Psychological support for children and caregivers Family counseling and long-term survivorship planning Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman? Recognized for expertise in complex pediatric brain tumor surgery Operates at National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS) Provides specialized care at Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre Incorporates advanced imaging, safe anesthesia, and minimally invasive techniques Collaborates with top pediatric oncologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation experts Expert Help for Rare Brain Tumors in Children – Available Now in Bangladesh Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery, NINS Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre For Serial/Appointments: 01912988182 | 01607033535 Visit: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com