Question

Ependymomas are a rare type of CNS tumor that forms primarily in children. These tumors form in the ependymal cells; therefore, which of the following functions of neuroglia would be directly affected in a child with an ependymoma?

Answer 1

Ependymomas affect ependymal cells in the CNS, resulting in impaired production and regulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) due to these cells' pivotal role in filtering blood to produce CSF within the choroid plexus.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ependymomas are a type of tumor that arises from ependymal cells, which are glial cells in the Central Nervous System (CNS). These cells are essential for the production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). As such, a child with an ependymoma would likely experience issues related to the filtration and circulation of CSF within their CNS. The choroid plexus is a specialized structure within the ventricles of the brain where ependymal cells filter blood to produce CSF. Therefore, the function of neuroglia that would be directly affected in a child with an ependymoma is the production and regulation of CSF.