Medulloblastoma is a primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) found in the cerebella of children. This tumour accounts for approximately 7-8% of all intracranial tumours and 30% of paediatric brain tumours. The incidence of medulloblastoma is 1.5-2 cases per 100,000 population, more common in males than females (1.5:1). Although cancer is rare in children, brain tumours are the most common type of childhood cancer other than leukaemia and lymphoma.

The signs of childhood medulloblastoma vary and often depend on the child’s age and where the tumour is located.

These symptoms may be caused by a medulloblastoma or other conditions. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur:

• Loss of balance, difficulty walking, worsening handwriting, or slow speech.
• Morning headache or headache that goes away after vomiting.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Unusual sleepiness or change in energy level.
• Change in personality or behaviour.
• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain.

The tumour has the propensity of spreading throughout the CNS.

The treatment is a combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

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