Treatments for Brain Tumors

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The goal of treatment is to slow the disease and maintain quality of life. For some types of tumors, the goal is to cure the person of the disease. At this time, this is not possible for all types of brain tumors. The treatment plan often uses more than one therapy. This is based on the type of tumor, a person's age, general health, and outlook. Comfort measures are given to those in later stages.

If the tumor is not causing problems, the doctor may advise watchful waiting. This means the tumor will be monitored for growth or new symptoms.

Brain tumor treatment includes:

Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Lifestyle changes Medications Other treatments

Treatments for many cancers are always changing. Some have yet to be found. As a result, clinical trials exist. More can be learned about them by visiting the National Institutes of Health website.

References

Adult central nervous system tumors treatment (PDQ®)–Health professional version. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/brain/hp/adult-brain-treatment-pdq. Accessed March 15, 2022.

Astrocytoma and oligodentroglioma in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/astrocytoma-and-oligodendroglioma-in-adults. Accessed March 15, 2022.

Chemotherapy for adult brain and spinal cord tumors. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/brain-spinal-cord-tumors-adults/treating/chemotherapy.html. Accessed March 15, 2022.

Meningioma. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/meningioma. Accessed March 15, 2022.

Overview of intracranial tumors. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic-disorders/intracranial-and-spinal-tumors/overview-of-intracranial-tumors. Accessed March 15, 2022.

Revision Information

Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Rimas Lukas, MD
Review Date: 11/2021
Update Date: 03/15/2022

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.