Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma (JPA)
Juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma (JPA) is a slow-growing brain tumor most commonly found in children ages five to eight. The tumor often develops in the lower back part of the brain, called the cerebellum, and is filled with fluid. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, poor balance and visual problems.
Best in Care
The AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute is a state-of-the-art facility for adults and children affected by JPA. We specialize in minimally invasive treatments that use laser technology to remove the tumor or reduce its size. Using Intraoperative MRI, our surgeons can view 3-D images of JPAs during surgery, helping them to remove more of the tumor. These advanced techniques typically minimize damage to surrounding tissue, so patients recover more quickly and experience less scarring and pain.