Walking in the valley of death: The impact of brain tumors on children

Cancer is the largest cause of death by disease in children under 15, and tumors of the brain and central nervous system are the second most common type. Such tumors sometimes present initially with psychiatric features, and further diagnostic confusions can ensue with hospitalization and treatment. This monograph addresses the devastating impact of an intracranial neoplasm on the emotional life and adaptations of the child, with particular attention to interventions and possible diagnostic problems.The assistance of Dr. Edna F. Roth in the preparation of this article is gratefully acknowledged.