MRI demonstrates typical appearance of a brainstem glioma including: expansion of the pons by a high T2, low T2 signal mass, resulting in flattening of the floor of the fourth ventricle. Only patchy minor enhancement is present following administration of contrast. MRS demonstrates a typical tumor trace with elevated choline and depressed NAA. 

Brain stem gliomas account for 10–20% of pediatric central nervous system tumors, and 75% of these occur before the age of 20 years. The most common neurologic signs at diagnosis, in 75% of patients, are seventh nerve palsy, horizontal nystagmus, as well as cerebellar and pyramidal signs which may be unilateral or bilateral.

For a full discussion of the condition, please refer to the article on brainstem gliomas.