Diagnosis and therapy of childhood brain tumors – an update

Childhood cancers are rare disorders. The average annual age-standardized incidence is 149/1000000 (0-14 yrs). Diagnosis of childhood brain tumors, despite the specifi c localization and advanced imaging techniques can cause diffi culties. In recent years, due to better early recognition, number of surgically removable brain tumors is increasing. Early detection of the disease (clinical knowledge), use of modern imaging (fMRI) techniques and detection of characteristic molecular lesions allow up-to-date diagnosis and successful treatments. These approaches provide the basis for risk-adapted personalized treatment options.