May also be called: Pontine Glioma, Diffuse Pontine Glioma, Midbrain Tumor, Tumor of the Medulla A brain stem glioma (glee-OH-muh) is any tumor that forms in a part of the brain stem. More to Know The brain stem, located deep in the back of the brain, is made up of three parts: the midbrain, pons, and medulla. These parts coordinate the brain's messages. They also control many of the body's autonomic functions (processes we almost never think about controlling, like breathing, digestion, sweating, and shivering). A tumor that develops in any area of the brain stem is called a brain stem glioma. Types of brain stem gliomas include pontine glioma, midbrain tumor, and tumor of the medulla. In a pontine glioma (a tumor in the pons), symptoms may come on suddenly and get worse quickly. They can include: double vision turning in of one eyeball drooping of the eyelid trouble swallowing trouble speaking and walking Pontine gliomas are the most common brain stem tumors and are hard to treat. Midbrain tumors may cause similar eye problems, along with headaches and vomiting. This is due to increased pressure in the head from a blockage of cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord. Tumors of the medulla may cause swallowing problems and limb weakness. Surgeons usually can't operate on the brain stem, so oncologists (cancer doctors) mostly treat brain stem gliomas with radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Keep in Mind With more treatments becoming available, the outlook for kids with brain stem gliomas is improving. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Brain and Nervous System Cancers These cancers are the most common type of cancer in children. When discovered early, they often can be cured. Read More Brain Tumors Brain tumors are the second most common group of childhood cancers. Treatment requires a very specialized plan involving a team of medical specialists. Read More Brain and Nervous System The brain controls everything we do, and is often likened to the central computer within a vast, complicated communication network, working at lightning speed. Read More Cancer Center From treatments and prevention to coping with the emotional aspects of cancer, the Cancer Center provides comprehensive information that parents need. Read More Chemotherapy Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells. Read More Childhood Cancer Different kinds of childhood cancer have different signs, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes. But today, most kids with cancer get better. Read More Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, irradiation, or X-ray therapy, is one of the most common forms of cancer treatment. Read More Side Effects of Chemotherapy and Radiation Side effects of cancer treatment can include flu-like symptoms, hair loss, and blood clotting problems. After treatment ends, most side effects go away. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.