What is DIPG?
DIPG, or diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, is an aggressive brain tumor that begins in the pons, an area of the brain stem. The pons controls breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and nerves involved in vision, hearing, speech, swallowing, balance, and movement.
DIPG is also known as diffuse midline glioma, H3 K27-altered. About 200–300 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States, most often in children ages 5–10. There is no known cure.
Radiation therapy is the main treatment. It can temporarily shrink the tumor and improve symptoms, but it does not provide a long-term cure. Families may also consider clinical trials and early palliative care with their medical team.
200–300new U.S. cases each year
Ages 5–10most commonly diagnosed
Fewer than 10%survive more than two years
Statistics and clinical overview: St. Jude Together.
Symptoms of DIPG
Symptoms can affect movement, balance, swallowing, and the nerves of the face and eyes.
- Facial weakness or drooping, usually on one side
- Headaches, nausea, or vomiting
- Problems with balance, coordination, or walking
- Blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, or uncontrolled eye movement
- Weakness in an arm or leg, usually on one side
- Problems with speech, chewing, or swallowing
Treatment and clinical care
Care can involve radiation, clinical trials, symptom relief, and testing that helps a medical team understand the tumor.
Radiation therapy
Radiation is the main treatment for DIPG. It can slow or shrink the tumor and temporarily improve symptoms, but it does not provide a long-term cure.
Clinical trials
Clinical trials study chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and new ways to deliver treatment. A care team can explain which trials may be appropriate.
Biopsy and surgery
DIPG cannot be removed safely with surgery because it grows through an area that controls vital functions. Biopsy is a diagnostic procedure and may help identify tumor markers or clinical trial options.
Learn more from St. Jude
Read current information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, supportive care, and questions to ask a care team.