Table of Contents
Radiation
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, plays a central role in the treatment of most brain tumors.
Various radiation treatments are used. Radiation is usually given externally, from a source outside the body that directs radiation beams. In some cases, internal radiation may be used as a booster to external-beam radiation. Internal radiation (also called interstitial radiation) generally involves brachytherapy, which uses radioactive "seeds" implanted directly in the tumor site.
Radiotherapy after Surgery. Even when it appears that the entire tumor has been surgically removed, microscopic cancer cells often remain in the surrounding brain tissue. Radiation targets the residual tumor with the goal of reducing its size or stopping its progression. If the entire tumor cannot be removed safely, postoperative radiotherapy is often recommended. Even some benign gliomas may need radiation, since they may become life threatening if their growth is not controlled.
Radiotherapy When Surgery Is Not Appropriate. Radiotherapy may be used instead of surgery for inaccessible tumors or for tumors that have properties that are particularly responsive to radiotherapy.
Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy (Radiochemotherapy). Combining chemotherapy with radiotherapy is beneficial for some patients with high-grade tumors.
Review Date: 10/21/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine,
Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.
Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M.,
Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
