Low-grade astrocytomas of childhood.

Low-grade astrocytomas are the single most common form of pediatric brain tumor, representing 28% of the total. Prolonged survival and even cures can be expected in a substantial proportion of patients who present with these tumors. For a variety of reasons, the overall oncologic management of children with low-grade astrocytomas is extremely controversial. This article analyzes the available information related to the management of various forms of low-grade astrocytoma in childhood while awaiting the performance of a long-term national cooperative study on the natural history and management of this common pediatric brain tumor.