Radiosurgery for Pediatric Brain Tumors

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2016 Mar;63(3):398-405. doi: 10.1002/pbc.25831. Epub 2015 Nov 4.

Abstract

The utility of radiosurgery for pediatric brain tumors is not well known. For children, radiosurgery may have an important role for treating unresectable tumors, residual disease, or tumors in the recurrent setting that have received prior radiotherapy. The available evidence demonstrates utility for some children with primary brain tumors resulting in good local control. Radiosurgery can be considered for limited residual disease or focal recurrences. However, the potential toxicities are unique and not insignificant. Therefore, prospective studies need to be performed to develop guidelines for indications and treatment for children and reduce toxicity in this population.

Keywords: craniopharyngioma; ependymoma; glioma; medulloblastoma; pediatric; radiosurgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Brain Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Craniopharyngioma / surgery
  • Ependymoma / surgery
  • Glioma / surgery
  • Humans
  • Medulloblastoma / surgery
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Radiosurgery*
  • Treatment Outcome