Brain Tumor in Newborn Babies

Abstract

5 cases of brain tumor in newborn babies under 2 months are presented. 4 of them were supratentorial teratoma and originated from the midline, and 1 was a glioma at the cerebellopontine angle. 2 cases died before surgery and 2 cases after surgery. In our 5th case a benign teratoma of 150 g was removed from the third ventricle. He was discharged and enjoyed rather good health for 2 years and 1 month before dying of recurrence of tumor. Internal hydrocephalus associated with the huge tumor was responsible for the sudden deterioration of general condition. Therefore, shunting procedures should be performed as the first aid. However, in our experiences, the conditions at admission were too critical and/or too late to be beneficial. Thus, early diagnosis is absolutely necessary for surgical treatment. A summary and discussion of the data of 103 previously reported cases are included.