Neuro-Oncology

Quality of life is one of the highest priorities in neuro-oncological care and should be heavily weighted in finalizing the best treatment option. Brain and spine tumors can be primary or metastatic. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies primary brain tumors into grades depending on their histologic features. In the vast majority of primary tumors, the pathogenesis revolves around alterations of signaling pathways. De novo glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and occurs in older patients. Family history is important to rule out genetic syndromes. The treatment plans for CNS tumors requires a multidisciplinary approach combining neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and radiation oncology expertise. Brain and spinal tumors in pregnancy are rare, except for enlargement of pituitary tumors and meningiomas. Gliomas are infiltrative tumors and tend to recur after surgical resection and adjuvant therapy is necessary. The best prognosis is associated with upfront aggressive surgical resection for high-grade gliomas.