The next few sections describe the various types of treatments used for brain and spinal cord tumors. This is followed by a description of the most common approaches used based on the type of tumor.
General comments about treatment
Brain and spinal cord tumors can often be difficult to treat and may require care from a team of several different doctors. This team is often led by a neurosurgeon, a doctor who uses surgery to treat brain and nervous system tumors. Other doctors on the team may include:
- Neurologist: a doctor who diagnoses and treats brain and nervous system diseases
- Radiation oncologist: a doctor who uses radiation to treat cancer
- Medical oncologist: a doctor who uses chemotherapy and other medicines to treat cancers
- Endocrinologist: a doctor who treats diseases in glands that secrete hormones
Many other specialists may be involved in your care as well, including nurse practitioners, nurses, psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation specialists, and other health professionals.
Several types of treatment may be used to treat central nervous system (CNS) tumors, including:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Other types of drugs
Treatment is based on the type of tumor and other factors, and in many cases a combination of treatments is used. Doctors plan each person's treatment individually to give them the best chance of treating the cancer effectively while limiting the possible long-term side effects.
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