Brain Cancer Treatment

In general, brain cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The specific brain cancer treatment plan will depend upon the type of brain cancer, the size and location of the tumor, the brain tumor grade, and the patient's general health. Potential side effects from brain cancer treatment range from physical problems to problems with speech and memory.

 

Brain Cancer Treatment: An Overview

Brain cancer treatment options vary based on:
 
  • The type of brain cancer
  • The size and location of the tumor
  • The brain tumor grade
  • The patient's general health.
     
For some types of brain tumors, the doctor will also need to know whether cancer cells were found in the cerebrospinal fluid.
 
In general, brain cancer treatment options can include:
 
  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy.
     
Patients should work with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that meets their medical needs and personal values. Choosing brain cancer treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, the family, and the healthcare team.
 

Brain Cancer Treatment: Remembering Questions and Answers

Many people with brain cancer want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care and their brain cancer treatment. However, the shock and stress after the initial diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything to ask the doctor. Some patients find it helpful to make a list of questions before their appointment with their doctor.
 
(Click Brain Cancer Questions for a list of questions to ask your doctor prior to brain cancer treatment.)
 
(Brain Cancer Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD