Intracranial Tumor in an Infant: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge in Well-Child Care—A Case Report

https://doi.org/10.63923/smhs.2026.131

Abstract

Intracranial tumors in early childhood present a diagnostic challenge, particularly in infants, due to the nonspecific nature of symptoms and limited communication of complaints. This report describes the case of a 1 year and 9-month-old female infant with progressive neurological changes initially noticed by a caregiver, culminating in the diagnosis of a large intracranial mass with mass effect and hydrocephalus. The patient had adequate neuropsychomotor development and an unremarkable perinatal history. Signs such as head deviation, tremors, and abnormal head circumference growth led to imaging studies. After reviewing the imaging exam, the patient was promptly referred to a high-complexity service for follow-up with a specialized team. This case reinforces the importance of pediatric well-child visits (puericulture) as a fundamental tool for early recognition of neurological changes, highlighting the relevance of systematic evaluation of growth and development, as well as an integrated clinical approach for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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