Treatment Methods
Treatment may include (alone or in combination):
- Surgery is usually the first step in the treatment of brain tumors. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while maintaining neurological function. A biopsy is also done to examine the types of cells the tumor is made of for a diagnosis. This is frequently done if the tumor is in an area with sensitive structures around it that may be injured during removal.
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Steroids are used to treat and prevent swelling, especially in the brain.
- Anti-seizure medication treats and prevents seizures associated with intracranial pressure.
- Placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (also called a VP shunt), which is a tube that is placed into the fluid filled spaces of the brain called ventricles. The other end of the tube is placed into the abdomen to help drain excess fluid that can build up in the brain and cause an increase in pressure in the brain.
- Bone marrow transplantation
- Supportive care minimizes the side effects of the tumor or treatment.
- Rehabilitation may be necessary to regain lost motor skills and muscle strength; speech, physical, and occupational therapists may be involved in the healthcare team.
- Antibiotics treat and prevent infections.
- Continuous follow-up care helps manage disease, detect recurrence of the tumor, and to manage late effects of treatment.