Diffuse Instrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) / Diffuse Midline Glioma (DMG)
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, or DIPG, is an aggressive brain tumor that forms in the base of the brain. DIPG begins in the brainstem, in an area called the pons. The pons controls vital life functions including balance, breathing, bladder control, heart rate, and blood pressure. Nerves that control vision, hearing, speech, swallowing, and movement also pass through this part of the brain.
DIPG is a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.
DMG is a diffuse midline glioma.
Glioma is a type of tumor that occurs in the brain and spinal cord.
Gliomas are classified by cell type, grade and location.
3 Parts of the brainstem -
Pons, midbrain, & Medulla
Brainstem controls critical functions - breathing and heartbeat. Pontine tumors are found in the pons.
DMG is a newer pathology term used for gliomas that invade normal tissue in the “midline” of the brain. The midline includes multiple structures (the thalamus, the brainstem, and the spinal cord). Most biopsied DIPG tumors are diagnosised as DMG. Additionally, you can have a DMG outside of the brainstem that is not a DIPG.
Get 1-on-1 support
Nurse Navigator
Experienced nurses are here to personally help families make informed decisions and do what is best for their loved ones.
Designed by families who have faced a DIPG/DMG diagnosis, this is the unique FREE resource they wish had existed during their own fight.
Serving DIPG/DMG patients being treated in the United States.