Ependymoma tumour is an extremely rare form of tumour that can affect both the brain and the spinal cord.

Ependymomas can develop in people of any age, however they are significantly more common in children. It is not known what actually causes these tumours to form.

Symptoms

Ependymoma symptoms include:

• Headaches and neck pain
• Alterations in eyesight, such as haziness or loss of vision
• Sudden eye movements
• Vomiting and nausea
• Inability to walk or maintain one’s balance
• Convulsions and seizures
• Limbs tingling, numbness, or weakness

Diagnosis

If your doctor suspects you of having an ependymoma, they may do the following tests:

• Physical and neurological exam
• MRI
• Spinal tap
• Biopsy

Treatment

Your doctor may recommend surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment depending on the location of the tumour.