Division of Pediatric Endocrinology
Children's Brain Tumor Center
Astrocytoma is a malignant, or cancerous, type of brain tumor. This type of tumor arises from small, star-shaped cells in the brain called astrocytes. Astrocytes are one of several types of supporting cells in the brain called glial cells. Therefore, an astrocytoma is a subtype of the larger group of brain tumors called gliomas.
Astrocytoma is the most common form of glioma and may occur anywhere in the brain. However, it is most commonly found in the cerebrum in adults, and in the cerebellum, brainstem, and optic nerves in children.
Congenital Hypothyroidism
Congenital hypothyroidism is a condition where a newborn has decreased or absent thyroid function and thyroid hormone production.
The thyroid is a gland in the lower neck that makes iodine-containing hormones that regulate growth, brain development, and metabolism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the gland is absent, abnormally developed, destroyed, or reduced in size, or the production of thyroid hormones is decreased or absent.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an inherited disorder that causes the body to have insufficient amounts of certain adrenal hormones. Depending on the severity of the problem, the disorder can be life-threatening; however, most people diagnosed with CAH who receive proper treatment lead normal, healthy lives.
