About DIPG
About DIPG
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a fast-growing type of brain tumor that starts in the part of the brain stem called the pons. The brain stem is the part of the brain above the back of the neck that is connected to the spinal cord. The pons controls many vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, and the nerves and muscles used in seeing, hearing, walking, talking, and eating. DIPG is a glioma, meaning it starts in the brain stem's glial cells. Glial cells support and protect the brain's nerve cells.
In the United States, about 300 children are diagnosed with DIPG each year. DIPG primarily affects children between the ages of 5 and 10 years but can occur in younger children and teens. DIPG is rare in adults.
Current Treatment Options for DIPG
Current Treatment Options
Due to the location of the tumor in the pons/brainstem and the nature of a diffuse tumor, it is not possible to remove surgically. The brainstem controls basic life functions so it is not possible to remove the tumor without damaging healthy cells in the process. The current standard treatment is palliative radiation therapy, meaning that it is not meant to cure DIPG, but rather shrink the tumor. There have not been significant advancements in the standard treatment for DIPG in more than 60 years.
