Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytomas

Although they are generally benign, juvenile pilocytic astrocytomas can cause symptoms when they press against nearby structures in the brain. Symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting

Other symptoms will depend upon on where the tumor is located. For example, a tumor in the cerebellum — which controls balance and coordination — may   cause clumsiness, weakness, or problems walking. A juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma pressing on the optic nerve may cause vision changes. If the tumor presses on the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, which regulate growth,symptoms may include short stature, behavior changes, or early or delayed puberty.

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Reviewed by: Jeffrey Greenfield, Ph.D., M.D.
Last reviewed/last updated: August 2018