Posterior Fossa Tumor

What is a posterior fossa tumor?

A posterior fossa tumor is a brain tumor found at the bottom of the skull. These tumors are usually primary brain cancers. If they grow large enough, they may block the flow of spinal fluid, cause increased pressure on the brain and spinal cord and damage the cranial nerves.

What are the signs and symptoms of a posterior fossa tumor?

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Imbalance
• Nausea and vomiting
• Eye and vision problems
• Facial muscle weakness
• Hearing loss

How is a posterior fossa tumor treated?

Surgery is used to remove posterior fossa tumors, even if they are not cancerous because the presence of the tumor can damage other nerves and other structures in the brain. Radiation treatment may also be used.