Learn About Cancer »Types of Cancer »Neuro-Oncology Cancer

Fox Chase Cancer Center's team of brain cancer specialists treats patients with all types of primary brain tumors and metastatic brain tumors (brain cancer that has spread from elsewhere in the body), which include:

• Glioblastoma multiforme
• Astrocytoma(low grade and anaplastic)
• Oligodendroglioma(low grade and anaplastic)
• Meningioma (typical, atypical and malignant)
• Primary central nervous system lymphoma
• Mixed gliomas
• Ependymomas
• Pineal parenchymal tumors
• Central nervous system germ cell tumors
• Craniopharyngiomas
• Recurrent brain tumors
• Single metastatic brain tumor

Our skilled team of doctors has access to the most sophisticated technology, which can make a difference in treatment outcomes.

Radiation Therapy for Brain Tumors

Fox Chase Cancer Center's world-class team of radiation oncologists provides brain tumor treatment using external beam radiation, including the use of stereotactic radiosurgery.

External Beam Radiation

External beam radiation is the most common treatment given to patients with primary malignant brain tumors. The radiation is an X-ray beam similar to those used is chest X-rays or CT scans, but with much higher energy.

There is no need for invasive procedures with external beam radiation. Treatment is usually given on an outpatient basis daily (Monday - Friday) for 5-7 weeks. By giving the brain tumor treatment over an extended period of time, patients usually experience fewer side effects. In addition, external beam radiation spares the surrounding healthy tissue near the tumor.

Treatment requires one planning session called a simulation in order to precisely target the radiation to the tumor. At Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, this planning is done with the help of advanced CT scan and MRI-based computer technology. Patients are seen regularly by their radiation oncologist and nursing staff during the course of treatments to answer questions and help manage side effects.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Stereotactic radiosurgery is another way to treat many types of brain tumors with external beam radiation. This involves giving one or a small number of highly focused external X-ray treatments to the brain tumor. The treatment is designed to target as small an area as possible around the tumor without damaging nearby healthy tissue. This form of radiation requires specialized X-ray equipment and technology. Close teamwork between the radiation oncologist and your surgeon ensures exact pinpointing of the brain tumor.

For more information about treatment for brain tumors and other neurological cancers at Fox Chase Cancer Center or to make an appointment, call 1-888-FOX CHASE (1-888-369-2427).