Understanding Brain Tumor Treatment Options: A Comprehensive Guide

Overview

Treatment for brain tumors varies depending on several factors, including:

• Tumor type and grade
• Location and size
• Patient's age and overall health

Primary Treatment Options

1. Surgery

• Goal: Remove as much tumor as possible
• Techniques:
  • Traditional craniotomy
  • Minimally invasive approaches
  • Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT)
• Benefits: Immediate tumor reduction
• Considerations: May not be suitable for all locations

2. Radiation Therapy

• External Beam Radiation
  • Conventional radiation
  • Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)
• Proton Therapy
• Treatment Schedule: Usually 2-6 weeks

3. Chemotherapy

• Common Medications:
  • Temozolomide
  • Carmustine
  • Lomustine
• Administration: Oral or intravenous
• Duration: Varies by protocol

4. Targeted Therapy

• Types:
  • Growth factor inhibitors
  • Angiogenesis inhibitors
• Benefits: More precise treatment

Supportive Care

• Anti-seizure medications
• Steroids for swelling
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy

Follow-up Care

• Regular MRI scans
• Neurological examinations
• Quality of life assessments

Clinical Trials

• Novel treatment options
• Access to experimental therapies
• Research participation