Ependymal Tumors

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Ependymal Tumors (Ep-en-dee-mal)

A relatively rare form of glioma, ependymal tumors begin in the cells lining the fluid-filled spaces in the brain. Called the ventricles, these spaces can be found throughout the brain.

Occasionally, these tumors can spread from the brain to the spinal cord via the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This is the fluid that surrounds and protects the spinal cord and brain. However, ependymal tumors will not spread to other parts of the body. They can only affect the central nervous system.

Unlike other tumors, ependymal tumors can develop in people of all ages, but are most common in children and adults who are 40-50 years of age. The symptoms vary depending on what area of the brain the tumor is growing.

There are three types of these tumors which can be found in the brain:

• Subependymomas (sub-ep-en-dee-moe-mas) - These tumors are usually located in or around the ventricles and are slow-growing. With surgery, long-term prognosis is generally excellent.
• Ependymomas (ep-en-dee-moe-mas) -  Ependymomas can arise anywhere in the central nervous system, but commonly develop in the posterior fossa (the portion of the skull containing the cerebellum and brain stem), the spinal cord or within the cerebral cortex. It is the most common of the ependymal tumors.
• Anaplastic ependymomas - A fast growing tumor, anaplastic ependymomas can be difficult to treat. They commonly occure in the posterior fossa

A fourth type of ependymal tumor, myxopapillary ependymomas, only occurs in the spinal cord.

Members of the medical team at the Florida Hospital Brain and Spinal Cancer Program will discuss treatment options with you so that you can experience the best possible outcome. Your course of treatment depends on many factors, including the size and position of the tumor as well as your general health.