Use of Steroids in Medulloblastoma

Steroids are sometimes used in patients with medulloblastoma to treat swelling in the brain. If steroids are prescribed, it’s often right at the beginning of treatment.

Upon being diagnosed with medulloblastoma, many patients are already experiencing pressure in the brain. That's because there is often swelling, or inflammation, around the tumor. The pressure in the brain is the cause of many of the symptoms of medulloblastoma.

Doctors may prescribe steroids to reduce that swelling before surgery and lessen those symptoms.

Why Are Steroids Used?

Steroids are used in treating medulloblastoma because they are fast-acting, so the symptoms caused by the tumor improve quickly. They are available in the form of a pill or liquid, or are given intravenously (by IV).

Steroids have side effects, and being on them long-term can be hard on the body. That's why it's best to stop using them as soon as it's safely possible.

Most patients with medulloblastoma do not need to be on steroids long-term. This is because the pressure in the brain is further relieved when the tumor is removed during surgery or when a shunt is placed. Then the steroids are no longer needed.

Patients with medulloblastoma are often weaned off of steroids while they are receiving radiation or soon after.