Ependymoma is a type of tumor arising from ependymal cells that line the ventricles of the brain and the center of the spinal cord that produce and store cerebrospinal fluid.  About 6% of pediatric brain tumors are ependymomas.

Types of ependymomas include:

• myxopapillary ependymoma - occurs in the lower part of the spinal column
• subependymoma - occurs near a ventricle
• ependymoma - occurs along the ventricle system and through the spinal cord
• anaplastic ependymoma - occurs below the ventricle and is more aggressive

Symptoms of ependymoma include nausea, vomiting and headaches as pressure increases due to the tumors blocking cerebrospinal fluid from draining properly.  Ependymomas occurring near the brain stem may cause the eyes to cross, balance issues and trouble walking.  Seizures are also common with severe ependymomas.  Ependymomas occurring in the spinal column will cause tingling sensations, numbness and weakness as well as incontinence.

Survival rates for children with ependymoma vary with the highest rate occurring when surgical removal is successful.