What are brain stem gliomas?

Brain stem gliomas are tumors in the brain stem. They primarily occur in children between ages 6 and 9 and can grow for a long time without being detected. Little is known about the risk factors or causes for brainstem gliomas. They may be cancerous or noncancerous. Brain stem gliomas can cause severe neurological problems with symptoms including nausea, headaches, trouble balancing, and sleepiness and are potentially fatal.