Ependymomas are rare central nervous system (CNS) tumors that form from ependymal cells, which line the brain's ventricles and the central canal of the spinal cord. These tumors can occur in both the brain and spinal cord and affect children and adults alike.
While some ependymomas are slow-growing and benign, others may be more aggressive. Ependymomas can block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, causing hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain) that will increase intracranial pressure, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Effective treatment often requires a combination of surgery, radiation, and long-term monitoring.
What Are Ependymomas?
An ependymoma is a glial tumor that arises from the ependymal cells within the ventricular system of the brain or the spinal cord. These tumors are classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) into three grades:
- Grade I (Subependymoma, Myxopapillary Ependymoma) – Benign and slow-growing
- Grade II (Classic Ependymoma) – Intermediate behavior
- Grade III (Anaplastic Ependymoma) – Malignant and more aggressive
Ependymomas can occur anywhere along the central nervous system, though common sites include the posterior fossa in children and the spinal cord in adults.
Who Gets Them and When?
Ependymomas can occur at any age, but incidence varies by age and tumor location:
- Children (especially under 5 years old) are more likely to develop ependymomas in the brain
- Adults (typically 20–40 years old) are more likely to develop spinal cord ependymomas
- Males and females are affected at similar rates, though a slight male predominance is seen in pediatric cases
