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Neuro Oncology

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Neuro Oncology

Understanding Neuro Oncology

Abnormal cells multiplying Step 1: Definition & Location Focuses on tumors arising in the Central Nervous System (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord (e.g., Gliomas, Meningiomas, Metastases).
Chemotherapy
Step 2:Key Challenges Treatment is complex due to the Blood-Brain Barrier (which blocks many drugs) and the vital function of the surrounding brain tissue, requiring extreme surgical and radiation precision.
Chemotherapy
Step 3: Multimodal Management Treatment almost always involves multiple modalities: Maximal Safe Resection (Surgery), Highly Focused Radiation, and Systemic Therapy (often specialized chemotherapy).

What is Neuro Oncology?

  • Definition: The medical specialty dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and research of tumors of the brain and spinal cord (Central Nervous System or CNS).
  • Primary Goal:To maximize tumor control and patient survival while minimizing damage to surrounding neurological structures to preserve function and quality of life.

Key Procedures (Treatment)

  • Neurosurgery (Maximal Safe Resection): Removing the largest possible amount of tumor safely, often using advanced techniques like awake craniotomy and intraoperative navigation.
  • Radiation Therapy (Focused): Precisely targeted radiation, including Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) or Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), to destroy tumor cells while sparing critical brain structures.
  • Chemotherapy: Drugs delivered orally or intravenously, often requiring specialized agents that can cross the Blood-Brain Barrier (e.g., Temozolomide).
  • Targeted Therapy/Immunotherapy: Use of newer drugs that target specific molecular pathways or stimulate the immune system, depending on the tumor's genetic profile.

Palliative & Supportive Care

  • Steroid Management: Careful use of corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone) to manage brain swelling (edema) caused by the tumor or treatment.
  • Seizure Control: Administration of anti-epileptic drugs, as seizures are common symptoms of brain tumors.
  • Rehabilitation: Intensive physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to regain lost neurological functions.
  • Psychological Support: Counseling for patients and families to cope with the profound cognitive, emotional, and physical impacts of CNS tumors.

Benefits of Specialized Neuro Oncology

  • Multidisciplinary Expertise: Care is provided by a team (neurosurgeon, radiation oncologist, neuro-oncologist) specializing solely in CNS tumors, leading to optimal decision-making.
  • Advanced Imaging/Navigation: Access to state-of-the-art imaging and surgical navigation systems for ultra-precise treatment delivery.
  • Clinical Trials Access: Offers access to the newest systemic therapies and treatment protocols specifically designed for CNS tumors.
  • Functional Preservation: Focuses not just on curing the cancer, but aggressively protecting speech, motor skills, and cognitive functions.
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