CNS Tumors

Management Principles:

• Airway, breathing, circulation stabilization
• Neurosurgery/neuro-oncology consultation
• NPO + IVF
• Avoid dehydration.
• Pre-surgical laboratory tests (electrolytes, CBC, coagulation studies, blood type and cross-matching)
• Intravenous steroids (dexamethasone) with GI-protective agent after discussing with NSx
• Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spine with and without intravenous contrast
• Ensure appropriate Na levels
• R/o elevated ICP and if evidence of intracranial hypertension, STAT NSx evaluation
• Preoperative endocrine laboratory tests for suprasellar tumors
• Ophthalmologic examination
• Seizure prophylaxis for patients presenting with or at high risk for convulsions
• Social work consultation
• Lumbar puncture for CSF cytology and tumor markers (for suspected CNS germinoma) is generally performed 7 to 10 days postoperatively if there are no contraindications

See the following attachment for an overview of common pediatric CNS tumors: Brain_Tumors.pdf

Useful links:
➤ CHOP