Neurooncology is a subspecialty of oncology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of tumors affecting the brain and nervous system. These tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign) and can occur at any age, although some types are more common in children or adults.
The field of neuro-oncology is interdisciplinary and involves collaboration between neurologists, neurosurgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care for patients with brain and nervous system tumors. Treatment options for neuro-oncology may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these modalities.
Some common types of brain and nervous system tumors include gliomas, meningiomas, pituitary tumors, acoustic neuromas, and medulloblastomas. Neurooncologists may also treat tumors that have spread from other parts of the body to the brain or spinal cord (metastatic tumors).
Due to the complexity of the nervous system and the potential risks associated with treatment, neurooncology requires specialized training and expertise. Neurooncologists must be skilled in the diagnosis and management of brain and nervous system tumors, as well as in the management of neurological complications that may arise during treatment.