title: Early recognition and management of brain tumours in children.
abstract: Brain tumours comprise over one quarter of all childhood cancers in the UK and are the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in children. The presentation of brain tumours can vary substantially in children. The presenting symptoms are often similar to less serious conditions, and are often managed as such initially. Therefore, it can be difficult to diagnose brain tumours in children. An early diagnosis is usually associated with more effective treatment and improved health outcomes. The diagnostic interval between first presentation to a health professional and diagnosis for brain tumours in children has been shown to be three times longer in the UK than in other developed countries. As a result, the HeadSmart campaign launched a symptom card in 2011 to increase awareness of brain tumours in children among the general population and healthcare professionals, with the aim of reducing the diagnostic interval to 5 weeks. Nurses have an essential role in early recognition of brain tumours in children, and in providing care and support to the child and their family following a diagnosis.
authors: St Mary's Hospital, London, England.
authors: Eleanor Katie
authors: EK
authors: Rogers
authors: Yeovil District Hospital, Yeovil, England.
authors: Anna
authors: A
authors: Cannon
authors: Yeovil District Hospital, Yeovil, England.
authors: Krzysztof
authors: K
authors: Zaborowski
authors: Torbay Hospital, Torquay, England.
authors: Siba Prosad
authors: SP
authors: Paul
mesh_terms: D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D002648:Child; D055088:Early Detection of Cancer; D006801:Humans; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D006113:United Kingdom
keywords: HeadSmart campaign; brain tumours; children; headache; neuro-oncology; neuroimaging