Astrocytomas account for nearly 50% of all childhood central nervous system (CNS) tumors(1).
- Peaks in incidence between 5- 6 years and 12 – 13 years
This is a diverse group of tumors, with several different subgroups and grades:
- High grade astrocytomas (HGA)
- Low grade astrocytomas (LGA)
Low grade astrocytomas are the most common CNS tumor of childhood.
Astrocytomas in childhood:
- Most frequently occur in the cerebellum
- usually low grade tumors
- Cerebral hemispheres and deep midline structures next most frequent sites.
Neuraxis dissemination is uncommon and prognosis may be excellent if the tumor is amenable to gross total resection.
Table : Incidence of various low-grade astrocytoma characteristics.
Proportion of pediatric tumors |
20% |
Proportion of pediatric brain tumors |
40% |
Median age of pilocytic astrocytomas |
5-14 years |
Median age of other low-grade astrocytomas |
30-40 years |
Gender bias |
Pilocytic astrocytomas: none Low-grade astrocytomas: 1.2: 1 male predilection Anaplastic astrocytomas: 1.9: 1 male predilection |
