The brain stem is the central hub of the brain and central nervous system connecting the brain and the spinal cord.  It includes the midbrain, pons and medulla.  Brain stem gliomas account for approximately 10% of pediatric brain tumors.

Brain stem gliomas that arise from the midbrain have a much better prognosis than other brain stem gliomas.  Tumors in this region often affect the nerves that control eye muscles.  If midbrain gliomas block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, the patient may suffer from increased pressure with headaches and vomiting.

Brain stem gliomas affecting the medulla will cause problems with swallowing as well as weakness in the arms and legs.

Pontine gliomas - brain stem gliomas in the pons - affect cranial nerves, and patients will have trouble with the eye and face muscles as well as problems swallowing.  Other symptoms of pontine gliomas include:

• double vision
• inability to close the eyelids completely
• one side of the face droops
• difficulty chewing and swallowing
• weakness in the arms and legs
• difficulty with speech
• difficulty walking

While brain stem gliomas of the midbrain and medulla have a 65% - 90% outcome, it is uncommon for patients with pontine gliomas to survive beyond 12 to 14 months.