Overview
Embryonal tumors are a group of brain and CNS tumors that begin in the fetal (embryonic) cells of the brain. Medulloblastoma is a type of high-grade embryonal tumor that originates in the fetal (embryonic) cells of the brain. It is the most common type of embryonal tumor, and while this tumor type can occur in all ages, it is most common in childhood. Medulloblastoma most commonly occurs in an area of the brain called the fourth ventricle or the cerebellum, which is an area in the back of the head that controls balance and other motor functions. Due to scientific advances in biomarker testing, there are four main groups of medulloblastoma that are molecularly defined: (1) WNT-activated, (2) SHH-activated and TP53-wildtype, (3) SHH-activated and TP53-mutant, and (4) non-WNT/non-SHH. Within the different types, there are different subgroups, clinical features, and outcomes. Most people with medulloblastoma present with signs and symptoms related to increased pressure within the skull such as headache, nausea, and vomiting
2021 WHO CNS Grade
A tumor grade describes how normal or abnormal tumor cells appear under a microscope. In lower grade tumors like grade 1, the cells look close to normal. In higher grade tumors like grade 4, the cells look more abnormal. Medulloblastoma is considered grade 4.
Statistics
Medulloblastoma is a type of embryonal tumor. Please note that these statistics are representative of all embryonal tumors and not solely medulloblastoma.
- Percent of All Brain and Other CNS Tumors: 0.6%
- Average Annual Age-Adjusted Incidence Rate: 0.21 per 100,000
- Median Age at Diagnosis: 8 years
Survival
Survival rates compare the percentage of people living with a particular diagnosis at a particular point in time compared to the general population.
Medulloblastoma is a type of embryonal tumor. Please note that these statistics are representative of all embryonal tumors and not solely medulloblastoma.
- One-Year Relative Survival Rate: 83.6%
- Five-Year Relative Survival Rate: 65.0%
- Ten-Year Relative Survival Rate: 58.4%
Treatment Options
Every person living with a brain or CNS tumor is unique. If you have been diagnosed with a brain or CNS tumor and would like to better understand your treatment options, it is important to work with your health care team to decide the best course of treatment for you. You may also consider getting a second opinion or reaching out to our Personalized Support and Navigation team to learn more.
