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Introduction
Ependymomas are gliomas that comprise about 9% of all intracranial tumors in children. They are the third most common tumor after astrocytomas and primitive neuroectodermal tumors. Two-thirds of intracranial ependymomas occur in the infratentorial compartment, while one-third are supratentorial. Supratentorial ependymomas are usually intraparenchymal tumors that have cystic components and can be very large at diagnosis.
Key Points
- Large tumors: These tumors reach large sizes with a cystic component, and they often have increased vascularity.
- Extent of surgery predicts survival: The completeness of resection is the most important prognostic factor. Therefore, the goal of treatment is a gross total resection, where possible.
- Post-resection radiation recommended: Adjuvant treatment with radiotherapy is recommended in most cases.