PONTINE TUMOR Meaning and
Definition
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Pontine tumor, also known as a Brainstem glioma, refers to a type of brain tumor that specifically occurs in the pontine region of the brain. The pons is a vital part of the brainstem, located at the base of the brain, responsible for carrying crucial signals between the spinal cord and cerebrum.
A pontine tumor is usually a glioma, which means it originates from the glial cells, the supportive cells that surround and protect nerve cells within the brain. This type of tumor primarily affects children, particularly between the ages of 5 and 10 years, although it can also occur in adults. Pontine tumors are more commonly found in males than females.
Characterized by their slow-growing nature, pontine tumors typically affect the area called the middle cerebellar peduncle, located on one side of the pons. Due to their location, they often impede the normal functioning of vital structures within the brainstem, leading to a range of neurological symptoms such as double vision, facial weakness, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, and problems with coordination and balance.
Diagnosis of a pontine tumor is achieved through various medical imaging techniques, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment options for pontine tumors are often limited, as surgical removal is typically not recommended due to the tumor's location and high risk involved. Radiation therapy is the most common form of treatment, aiming to slow tumor growth and manage symptoms. Unfortunately, progression of a pontine tumor is often associated with a poor prognosis, and survival rates remain relatively low.
Common Misspellings for PONTINE TUMOR
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Etymology of PONTINE TUMOR
The word "Pontine" in "Pontine Tumor" is derived from the Latin word "pons", which means "bridge". It is used to refer to the pons, a specific part of the brainstem located between the medulla oblongata and the midbrain. The word "tumor" is derived from the Latin word "tumor", which means "swelling" or "enlargement". Therefore, a "Pontine Tumor" is a tumor or growth that occurs in the pons region of the brain.
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