Brain tumor treatment: chemotherapy and other new developments.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a summary of chemotherapy used in the management of malignant brain tumors, including a historical perspective, current standard therapies, and promising new therapies.


METHODS
Published articles, research data, and reference books.


CONCLUSIONS
Chemotherapy is used to treat several types of brain tumors, including primary central nervous system lymphomas, medulloblastomas, brain metastases, and malignant gliomas. New therapies, including cytostatic agents and molecular therapies, are being evaluated and used in the management of brain tumors.


CONCLUSIONS
It is essential for the oncology nurse to possess knowledge of the different types of brain tumors treated with chemotherapy, current chemotherapy regimens, new innovative therapies, and nursing management issues specific to this population.
Graham
Carrie Anne
CA
UCLA Neuro-Oncology Program, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. cgraham@mednet.ucla.edu
Cloughesy
Timothy F
TF
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing / Q000556:secondary; D017024:Chemotherapy, Adjuvant; D004347:Drug Interactions; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D015316:Genetic Therapy; D005910:Glioma / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D008527:Medulloblastoma / Q000188:drug therapy; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D018579:Patient Selection; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D000927:Anticonvulsants