The brainstem is one of the most difficult and feared places in which tumor occur. The most common type of tumor in this location is a glioma. At one time all brainstem gliomas were considered to be the same. Over the last two decades there has come a realization that tumors in this area are not the same. Brainstem gliomas are generally divided into the more common category of diffuse and the less common but potentially operable category of focal (or non-diffuse). The tumors might also be known by a more specific location such as tectum, pons, midbrain or cervicomedullary.

Tumor types within the brainstem glioma category include- diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas also known as DIPG, focal pontine gliomas, focal medullary tumors, tectal gliomas, midbrain gliomas, dorsal exophytic tumors and cervicomedulllary gliomas.

This list is to connect patients, parents, caregivers and medical professionals who have an interest in greater understanding of these tumors as well as building a brainstem glioma community. Discussion regarding conventional and alternative options are encouraged.