Pilocytic astrocytoma is a rare subtype of low-grade glioma of the central nervous system characterized by a well circumscribed often cystic brain tumor with a discrete mural nodule and long hair-like projections that extend from the neoplastic astrocytes. Depending on the primary localization and the size of the tumor patients can present with signs of raised intracranial pressure (headache vomiting papilledema) blurred vision decreased visual acuity ataxia and/or nystagmus among others. It is most commonly located in the cerebellum but ocurrence in the hypothalamus brain stem optic chiasma and hemispheres has also been reported.
Data from Orphanet are used to provide information on a disease's name, synonym(s), and overview. Reference: Access aggregated data from Orphanet at Orphadata. Orphadata: Free access data from Orphanet. © INSERM 1999. Available on http://www.orphadata.org. Data version April 2026
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Pilocytic astrocytoma?
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Advocacy Organizations
Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
Since 1991, the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation has led in funding research, supporting families, and advocating for policies to help patients and survivors. As the largest patient advocacy funder, it drives vital discoveries, new trials, and better treatments. Guided by patient and family experiences, PBTF supports families’ needs at every stage, focusing on care of the entire family.
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Clinical Trials
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