Chemotherapy of astrocytomas: an overview.
OBJECTIVE
To provide an overview of the use of chemotherapy in the treatment of malignant brain tumors, with an emphasis on malignant gliomas.


METHODS
Published articles, research studies, and reference books.


CONCLUSIONS
Chemotherapy has primarily been used in a adjuvant setting after radiation therapy for primary brain tumors. This focus has not had a significant effect on survival. In an effort to more effectively treat the tumor, innovative chemotherapy treatments have been developed. These include the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, changes in timing of administration, new classes of chemotherapeutic agents, new routes of delivery, and augmentation of the body's own immune system to treat the tumor.


CONCLUSIONS
It is the challenge of the oncology nurse caring for the patient with a malignant brain tumor to gain knowledge of the disease process, side effect management, and the most up-to-date treatment regimens.
Armstrong
T S
TS
Department of Neurology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30222, USA.
Gilbert
M R
MR
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001254:Astrocytoma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing*; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D010346:Patient Care Management
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents