Definition of Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG)

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG): a highly aggressive type of brain tumor found in the pons, a part of the brainstem. The brainstem controls many vital functions, like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. About 300 children are affected each year by DIPGs. They most commonly occur in children 5-9 years of age and can be difficult to treat. The causes and risk factors for developing DIPG are not understood. The prognosis for DIPG is very poor. Symptoms include problems with controlling eye and eyelid movement and facial expression and difficulty swallowing and chewing. Other symptoms can include difficulty speaking, trouble walking, and weakness in the arms and the legs.