Pilocytic astrocytoma
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 September 2023.
Newly diagnosed with
Pilocytic astrocytoma?
Our RARE Concierge Services Guides are available to assist you by providing information, resources and connections as you navigate your rare disease journey.
Advocacy Organizations
Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) leads the way in ending the childhood cancer community’s biggest crisis through research funding, family support and advocacy. Dedicated wholly to addressing this rare, but devastating disease, we are guided by the experiences of patients, survivors, their parents, and siblings.
Moonshots for Unicorns
Curing single-gene disorders
COMBINEDBrain Inc
COMBINEDBrain is a consortium for outcome measures and biomarkers for neurodevelopmental disorders. We are collaborating to cure rare, non-verbal brain disorders.
My Faulty Gene
My Faulty Gene is a nonprofit organization which provides information and assistance to any individual whose family medical history suggests genetic testing might be helpful in identifying an increased risk of disease due to a genetic mutation. We believe that everyone in need of genetic testing should have access to it.
My Little Sunshine Foundation
My Little Sunshine is a non-profit foundation dedicated to educating people about the importance of fertility preservation and making fertility resources accessible to all.
SALUS
Educate and provide resources to POC with Rare Cancers
Help Hope Live
Help Hope Live assists individuals living with catastrophic injuries and illnesses to fundraise toward their medical expenses and related costs.
Clinical Trials
For a list of clinical trials in this disease area, please click here.