Current Role of Radiation Therapy in the Management of Malignant Brain Tumors

Malignant brain tumors present a number of diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for the oncologist. Recent advances in radiation therapy have paralleled advances in diagnostic imaging and computer technology. Radiotherapeutic challenges still exist in elucidating the biology of brain tumors and balancing the goals of optimizing local control against minimizing the potential toxicities of radiation therapy. Controversies regarding the optimal timing, dose, and mode of delivery of radiotherapy also remain. This article focuses on the current role of radiation therapy in the management of malignant brain tumors including low-grade gliomas, high-grade gliomas, and brain metastases.