Brain Tumors: Primary - Treatment

Treatment

The approach for treating brain tumors is to reduce the tumor as much as possible using surgery, radiation treatment (also called radiotherapy), chemotherapy, or investigative procedures. Such treatments are used alone or, more commonly, in combinations. With some very slow-growing cancers, such as those that occur in the midbrain or optic nerve pathway, patients may be closely observed and not treated until the tumor shows signs of growth. The intensity, combination, and sequence of these treatments depends on the glioma subtype, its size and location, and patient age, health status, and medical history.

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Recent advances in surgical and radiation treatments have significantly extended average survival times compared to those of standard therapy. Investigative treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies, are also showing promise. Patients or their caretakers should discuss all options thoroughly with a specialist in brain cancer. Different specialists may be needed to help manage symptoms.

Emotional Support

Because of the low-cure rates of most malignant brain tumors, support for the patients and their families is a critical component of treatment and management. In response to one survey of patients with gliomas, experts made several recommendations to help both patients and caregivers:

• Any physical impairment that could benefit from home equipment or physical therapy should be identified and treated.
• Patients should discuss emotional as well as physical issues with their doctors. Depression, for instance, can be medically treated. Caregivers should also seek help for the inevitable stress, depression, and tension arising from their difficult role.
• Relaxation techniques, meditation, and spiritual resources can be extremely helpful. Support groups are beneficial, but experts recommend separate groups for patients and their families.

Review Date: 10/19/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, M.D., Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.