Choroid Plexus Carcinoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Choroid Plexus Carcinoma?
An oncologist is the main doctor who treats this cancer, usually with a team that includes a neurosurgeon, a radiation oncologist, and other specialists. Children are usually treated at centers focusing on pediatric oncology. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Choroid plexus carcinoma is a rare cancer that starts in the brain. Inside the brain are small clusters of tissue called the choroid plexus, which makes the fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord. When these cells grow out of control, they form a tumor that can grow quickly and spread. Unlike a choroid plexus papilloma, it is cancer.
Symptoms
Most symptoms come from extra fluid building up in the brain, called hydrocephalus. In babies, it can cause a larger-than-expected head with a bulging soft spot. Older children and adults may have headaches, nausea, vomiting, and sleepiness. Other signs include balance problems, downward-turning eyes, or behavior changes.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not fully know what causes this cancer, which happens when cells in the choroid plexus develop gene changes. Some cases are linked to Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare inherited condition that raises cancer risk. It mostly affects babies and young children.
How doctors diagnose it
Diagnosis starts with a physical exam. The main test is an MRI, which takes detailed pictures of the brain; doctors may also use a CT scan. A biopsy, examining a small piece of the tumor under a microscope, confirms the diagnosis.
Treatment
Surgery is often the first step, removing as much of the tumor as is safe. Because it can spread through the fluid around the brain and spine, doctors may treat the whole area. Chemotherapy is often used, especially in young children. Radiation may be used in older patients but avoided in very young children because of effects on the growing brain.
When to see a doctor
Anyone with ongoing headaches, repeated vomiting, unusual sleepiness, or behavior changes should see a doctor soon. Parents of babies should watch for a rapidly growing head, a bulging soft spot, or downward-gazing eyes. Sudden severe headaches, seizures, or extreme drowsiness need emergency care.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor is paid a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Neither treats brain cancer, so they refer patients to an oncologist and neurosurgeon right away and help coordinate appointments and follow-up care.
Common questions
Is choroid plexus carcinoma always found in children?
No, but it is much more common in babies and young children, usually before age five. Adults can develop it, though this is rare.
Is it the same as brain cancer in general?
It is one specific and rare type of brain tumor. It starts in the tissue that makes cerebrospinal fluid, which is the clear liquid that cushions the brain and spinal cord.
Can it come back after treatment?
It can return in some people, which is why regular follow-up scans are part of care. The chance of return depends on many factors, and the care team will explain what to watch for in each case.
Does this cancer run in families?
Most cases happen without any family history. Some cases are linked to Li-Fraumeni syndrome, an inherited condition that raises cancer risk, so doctors may suggest genetic testing.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Choroid plexus carcinoma
- MedlinePlus - Brain Tumors in Children
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
