Current Role of Radiation Therapy in the Management of Malignant Central Nervous System Tumors

Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2020 Feb;34(1):13-28. doi: 10.1016/j.hoc.2019.08.015. Epub 2019 Oct 28.

Abstract

The 2016 World Health Organization classification of central nervous system (CNS) tumors underwent significant restructuring and for the first time gliomas are classified according to both molecular and histologic parameters which guides glioma management. Radiation for intermediate-risk meningiomas improves the progression-free survival from historical controls, and studies are ongoing for atypical meningiomas. For brain metastases, use of stereotactic radiosurgery for a higher number of lesions has become clinical practice. Additionally, hippocampal-sparing whole brain radiation shows promise in preserving neuro-cognitive function. This article summarizes the evolving role of radiation therapy in the management of malignant CNS neoplasms.

Keywords: Brain metastases; Central nervous system brain tumors; Clinical review; Glioma; Meningioma; Radiation therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Meningioma / diagnostic imaging
  • Meningioma / radiotherapy*
  • Radiosurgery*