Choroid plexus carcinoma is a rare type of brain cancer that happens mainly in children.
Choroid plexus carcinoma begins as a growth of cells in the part of the brain called the choroid plexus. Cells in the choroid plexus produce the fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. This fluid is called cerebrospinal fluid, also known as CSF. As the cancer grows, it can cause too much CSF in the brain. This can lead to symptoms such as irritability, nausea or vomiting, and headaches.
Treatment and chance of recovery depend on many factors. These include the tumor's size, location, whether it has spread, and your child's age and general health.
Choroid plexus carcinoma happens the most in children under 2 years old. Tests and procedures used to diagnose choroid plexus carcinoma include:
Treatment in children usually differs from treatment in adults. If your child receives a diagnosis of choroid plexus carcinoma, ask your health care provider to refer you to a specialist who cares for children with brain tumors. The management of this cancer is complex. Seek out a medical center that has experience with this cancer and can offer the latest treatment options for your child.
Treatment of a choroid plexus carcinoma is often surgery followed by chemotherapy, radiation therapy or both.
Surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove all of the cancer, when possible. But because delicate and important structures may be nearby, surgeons sometimes can't get all the cancer cells. Other treatments are often needed after surgery.
Surgery can help relieve the symptoms of having too much fluid in the brain, which is also called hydrocephalus. Sometimes a temporary drain is put in during surgery to drain more fluid.
