What Is DIPG/DMG?
Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a rare, aggressive brain tumor that develops in the pons, an area of the brainstem responsible for many essential functions, including movement, swallowing, breathing, and eye movement.
Most often diagnosed in children, DIPG can also occur in adolescents and young adults. DIPG is part of a broader group of tumors known as diffuse midline gliomas (DMG)
Understanding the Name
DIPG may sound complicated, but its name tells us a great deal about where the tumor begins and how it grows.
Grows throughout and between healthy brain tissue rather than forming one clearly defined mass.
D DIFFUSE
Begins within the brainstem itself rather than spreading there from another area of the body.
I INTRINSCIC
Located in the pons, a vital part of the brainstem involved in breathing, sleep, balance, hearing, facial movement and sensation, eye movement, and communication between different areas of the brain.
P PONTINE
A tumor that develops from glial cells, which normally help support, protect, and maintain the brain and nervous system.
G GLIOMA
August 31, 2023
The day before Seana’s diagnosis.
At the time, none of us knew how much four letters would change our lives.
September 13, 2023
Twelve days after her diagnosis, Seana underwent a brain biopsy to better understand the molecular characteristics of her tumor and help determine which clinical trials and treatment options might be available to her.
Why Research Matters
For families facing DIPG and DMG, research represents possibility — new understanding, new treatments, and new hope.
For patients facing DIPG and DMG, research can create options where few currently exist.
Seana’s biopsy provided important information about her tumor that could help guide treatment decisions and determine whether she might qualify for clinical trials.
After completing radiation, research became an important part of the options Seana and her medical team explored.
With no cure currently available, continued research is essential to better understand these tumors, develop new treatments, and create more possibilities for patients and families.
March 14, 2024
Seana completing the consent process for the SonALAsense clinical trial at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami.
Looking for Trusted Information & Support?
We’ve gathered trusted organizations and resources to help families learn more about DIPG/DMG, research, clinical trials, and available support.