PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the most common location for medulloblastoma in children?

1. Frontal lobe

2. Cerebellar vermis

3. Temporal lobe

4. Brainstem

The correct answer is: Cerebellar vermis

Medulloblastoma predominantly occurs in the cerebellum, specifically affecting the cerebellar vermis. This location is critical because the cerebellum is responsible for coordinating movement and balance, which conveys the typical symptoms associated with medulloblastoma, such as ataxia and difficulties with coordination. The tumor originates from the granule cells of the cerebellum and typically presents in children, making its incidence in this region particularly significant. Medulloblastoma is one of the most common types of brain tumors in pediatric populations, and understanding its typical location helps in both diagnosis and treatment planning. The frontal lobe, temporal lobe, and brainstem are not the primary sites for this type of tumor, which helps clarify why the cerebellar vermis is the expected location for medulloblastoma in children. This understanding is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in pediatric oncology and neurology.