Effects of Brain Tumors on Vision in Children.

Central nervous tumors are the leading cause of death from cancer in the pediatric population. Advances in care for pediatric neuro-oncology patients have led to improved survival rates. As survivorship increases, care of the sequelae of the tumor and its treatment become more important for long-term quality of life. A significant portion of the brain is involved in vision. Pediatric brain tumors can distort, damage, and destroy portions of the brain involved in both the afferent and efferent vision pathways. This interruption of normal visual pathways can lead to permanent vision loss or other morbidities such as strabismus and nystagmus. This article reviews the presenting symptoms and signs of brain tumors in children and adolescents, as well as the effects of the tumor and its treatment on the afferent and efferent visual pathways. Strategies for monitoring during treatment, and management of sequelae are reviewed. Through systematic evaluation and monitoring of pediatric neuro-oncology patients, those at risk for vision loss or tumor progression can be identified.