Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Program

Central nervous system tumors can develop from different kinds of cells in the brain and spinal cord. At Mays Cancer Center, we treat all types of pediatric brain and spinal tumors in children of all ages. We offer wide-ranging services to support families during treatment, partnering to protect children’s long-term health.

Our team of highly skilled pediatric cancer specialists treats rare and complex tumors using leading therapies, such as intricate neurosurgery procedures. Our well-known research program offers eligible patients access to new cancer drugs only available through clinical trials.

Pediatric neurological cancers we treat

• Brain Tumors in Children
• Glioma Brain Tumors
• Medulloblastoma
• Neurofibromatosis

Why choose us for pediatric brain and spinal tumors care?

Our team includes doctors with fellowship training in pediatric neurosurgery and pediatric oncology. Several experienced pediatric cancer doctors work side by side to treat children with rare and complex neurological tumors, such as medulloblastoma and gliomas. We have the capabilities to perform delicate surgeries with a high degree of safety and precision.

Learn more about pediatric brain tumors.

Team approach to pediatric neuro-oncology

Multiple doctors work closely with each other — and with your family — throughout your child’s care. At regular tumor board meetings, our specialists combine their expertise and share insights relating to your child’s test results and treatment options.

This collaborative approach helps provide an accurate diagnosis. It also helps us personalize a treatment plan to your child’s unique needs.

Part of that team approach includes specialized support for conditions such as neurofibromatosis. This common inherited condition (passed down in families) greatly increases the likelihood of developing brain tumors and tumors in other parts of the body.

Our neurofibromatosis program coordinates services for children and helps families identify their risk and manage their long-term health.

Leading brain cancer treatments and clinical trials

Our partnership with the National Cancer Institute’s Children’s Oncology Group enables us to collaborate with hundreds of respected childhood cancer researchers at medical institutions across the country.

This association gives us access to leading diagnostic tests, which we use to help determine a cancer’s potential course and most appropriate treatment. We will explain whether your child may be eligible for any ongoing clinical trials, such as new cancer drugs that target specific features within brain tumor cells.

Learn more about pediatric cancer clinical trials.

Specialized programs for children’s unique needs

Children who need chemotherapy receive closely monitored care in our dedicated pediatric oncology inpatient wing at University Hospital. Pediatric cancer doctors and oncology-trained nurses deliver precise care while helping children feel comfortable.

Psychologists, social workers and child-life specialists are on hand to help families navigate cancer treatment. These team members can help your family meet emotional challenges and a child’s educational goals.

Our childhood cancer survivorship program serves as a lifelong resource to help pediatric cancer survivors lead active, healthy lives in the months and years after treatment ends.

Care location

University Hospital

• Pediatric Neuro-Oncology | Horizon Tower 10th Floor