Effective treatment of brain tumors: A Synthesis of Findings from 17 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Brain tumors are a complex and challenging medical condition. While research has yielded significant advancements in understanding and treating brain tumors, the field continues to evolve. Here, we summarize key findings from recent research to shed light on effective treatment options for brain tumors.

Treatment Summary

Treatment for brain tumors depends on the specific type, size, location, and individual patient characteristics. Common approaches include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery aims to remove the tumor as much as possible to alleviate symptoms. Radiation therapy involves exposing the tumor to radiation to inhibit its growth. Chemotherapy uses medications to slow tumor growth. These treatments may be used alone or in combination. Determining the most appropriate treatment plan requires careful discussion with a medical professional. 14

For example, a study ( 5 ) suggested that combining surgery and whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is a superior treatment option in terms of improving tumor control compared to surgery alone for newly diagnosed brain metastases. Additionally, another study ( 11 ) highlighted the need for further research to determine the optimal choice between surgery, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and WBRT for newly diagnosed brain metastases.

Moreover, a study ( 16 ) suggests that using electrical stimulation, either directly or through other methods, may be beneficial for mapping eloquent areas during brain tumor surgery. This approach aims to preserve neurological function by minimizing damage during the procedure.

Furthermore, a study ( 17 ) found that surgical intervention for primary brain tumors in pediatric patients is effective in improving oncologic outcomes and reducing seizure frequency.

These studies offer insights into the potential of various treatment options for brain tumors. Ongoing research is crucial to further enhance treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Treatment for brain tumors can vary depending on the type and severity of the tumor. However, many treatments, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, offer benefits like slowing down tumor growth, alleviating symptoms, and extending patient survival.

Risk Summary

It's important to note that these treatments also carry potential risks and side effects. Surgery can lead to complications such as bleeding or infection. Radiation therapy may cause skin irritation, hair loss, or other side effects. Chemotherapy can induce nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and other complications. The specific risks and side effects vary depending on the treatment method, and it is crucial to discuss these aspects with a doctor to make informed decisions.

Comparison Across Studies

Commonalities in Studies

Numerous studies demonstrate the effectiveness of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy in treating brain tumors. Additionally, they consistently highlight the potential risks and side effects associated with these treatments.

Differences in Studies

Variations in research findings can be attributed to differences in the types of brain tumors studied, the specific treatment methods employed, and the research methodologies used. For example, while one study ( 5 ) found that combining surgery and WBRT is effective, another study ( 3 ) suggested the effectiveness of combining SRS and WBRT. Such variations highlight the importance of comprehensively evaluating research findings to inform individual treatment decisions.

Consistency and Contradictions in Findings

Research on brain tumor treatment generally presents consistent findings regarding the efficacy of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, differences in the specific types of tumors, treatment methods, and research methodologies used across studies can lead to variations in results. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation of research findings is essential to select the optimal treatment plan for each patient.

Real-World Application Considerations

Treatment options for brain tumors are individualized based on the tumor type, severity, patient age, and overall health status. Research findings should not be directly applied to real-life situations without consulting with a medical professional. It is critical to consider individual patient characteristics and consult with a doctor to make informed decisions regarding treatment.

Current Research Limitations

Research on brain tumor treatment continues to advance, but there are still many areas that require further investigation. Ongoing research focuses on developing new treatment approaches, mitigating side effects, and tailoring treatments to individual patients.

Future Research Directions

Future research efforts in brain tumor treatment should focus on areas such as developing novel treatments, reducing side effects, and personalizing treatment strategies. Areas of particular interest include research at the genetic level and the development of new therapies like immunotherapy.

Conclusion

Brain tumor treatment is a complex and dynamic field, and the optimal treatment approach is determined based on individual patient characteristics. Recent research advancements have led to the development of more effective treatment options. However, ongoing research is crucial to address remaining challenges and improve treatment outcomes.

Choosing a treatment path for brain tumors is a significant decision for patients. Open communication with doctors is crucial to understand treatment options and make informed choices. By staying informed and actively engaging in the treatment process, patients can make progress in their fight against brain tumors.

Treatment List

  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)
  • Whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT)
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Immunotherapy
Literature analysis of 17 papers
Positive Content
14
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
2
Article Type
2
6
13
9
17
1.

Radiotherapy and CCNU in the treatment of high-grade supratentorial astrocytomas.

Author: WeirB, BandP, UrtasunR, BlainG, McleanD, WilsonF, MielkeB, GraceM

A study of 41 patients with brain tumors compared three treatment regimens: radiation therapy alone, CCNU chemotherapy alone, and a combination of radiation and CCNU. The median survival times were similar for all three groups (188, 259, and 252 days, respectively), and there was no significant difference in time to disease progression. The study concluded that there was no statistically significant difference in effectiveness between the three treatment regimens.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

3.

The role of stereotactic radiosurgery in the management of patients with newly diagnosed brain metastases: a systematic review and evidence-based clinical practice guideline.

Author: LinskeyMark E, AndrewsDavid W, AsherAnthony L, BurriStuart H, KondziolkaDouglas, RobinsonPaula D, AmmiratiMario, CobbsCharles S, GasparLaurie E, LoefflerJay S, McDermottMichael, MehtaMinesh P, MikkelsenTom, OlsonJeffrey J, PaleologosNina A, PatchellRoy A, RykenTimothy C, KalkanisSteven N

Brain tumor treatment

This study provides recommendations for treating newly diagnosed brain tumors that have spread from other areas of the body. The study suggests that combining stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) with whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is generally the best approach, especially for patients with good health (KPS score 70 or above) and one to four tumors. The study also suggests that SRS alone may be effective for some patients, but requires close monitoring for recurrence. While both SRS and surgery combined with WBRT are effective, there is limited evidence supporting the use of SRS alone for larger tumors or those causing significant brain swelling. The study also suggests that SRS alone may be as effective as WBRT alone for treating up to three brain tumors.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

4.

The role of surgical resection in the management of newly diagnosed brain metastases: a systematic review and evidence-based clinical practice guideline.

Author: KalkanisSteven N, KondziolkaDouglas, GasparLaurie E, BurriStuart H, AsherAnthony L, CobbsCharles S, AmmiratiMario, RobinsonPaula D, AndrewsDavid W, LoefflerJay S, McDermottMichael, MehtaMinesh P, MikkelsenTom, OlsonJeffrey J, PaleologosNina A, PatchellRoy A, RykenTimothy C, LinskeyMark E

Brain tumor treatment

This guideline recommends that for patients with a single brain tumor that can be surgically removed, surgery followed by radiation therapy is the best treatment option. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) plus radiation therapy may also be effective, but there is limited evidence for SRS for larger tumors or those causing significant brain compression. For patients with good overall health and limited cancer outside the brain, surgery plus radiation therapy is better than radiation alone. More research is needed for patients with poor health, widespread cancer, or multiple brain tumors.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

5.

The role of whole brain radiation therapy in the management of newly diagnosed brain metastases: a systematic review and evidence-based clinical practice guideline.

Author: GasparLaurie E, MehtaMinesh P, PatchellRoy A, BurriStuart H, RobinsonPaula D, MorrisRachel E, AmmiratiMario, AndrewsDavid W, AsherAnthony L, CobbsCharles S, KondziolkaDouglas, LinskeyMark E, LoefflerJay S, McDermottMichael, MikkelsenTom, OlsonJeffrey J, PaleologosNina A, RykenTimothy C, KalkanisSteven N

Metastatic brain tumor treatment
Survival rate improvement
Tumor control improvement

Surgical resection followed by whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is superior to surgical resection alone for treating single brain metastases. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) plus WBRT is an effective alternative, but SRS alone may be equivalent for smaller lesions with good monitoring.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

6.

Neurocognitive deficits following primary brain tumor treatment: systematic review of a decade of comparative studies.

Author: GehrkeAmanda K, BaisleyMargaret C, SonckAlexander L B, WronskiSamantha L, FeuersteinMichael

Cognitive deficits

This review examined the cognitive deficits experienced by brain tumor survivors after treatment. The review found that brain tumor survivors had deficits in working memory, cognitive control, processing speed, and other cognitive functions.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

7.

Prognosis and therapy of tumor-related versus non-tumor-related status epilepticus: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: ArikYunus, LeijtenFrans S S, SeuteTatjana, RobePierre A, SnijdersTom J

SE due to brain tumor

Status epilepticus (SE) caused by brain tumors has unique characteristics compared to SE from other causes. This study examined clinical features of tumor-related SE to determine whether it exhibits a distinct profile in terms of severity and response to treatment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

8.

Re-irradiation for Recurrent Primary Brain Tumors.

Author: NiederCarsten, AndratschkeNicolaus H, GrosuAnca L

Brain tumor treatment
Radionecrosis risk

Radiation oncologists have been hesitant to re-treat brain tumors with radiation due to concerns about serious side effects, like brain damage, that can develop months or years later. While re-treating brain tumors with radiation is being explored, there is still limited research on this approach.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

9.

Childhood Brain Tumors: a Systematic Review of the Structural Neuroimaging Literature.

Author: AilionAlyssa S, HortmanKyle, KingTricia Z

Brain tumor survivorship
Neurocognitive impairment

This review summarizes the neuroanatomical and neurocognitive outcomes associated with brain tumor survivorship. It highlights the common damage to the cerebellum, brain stem, subcortical regions, and frontal lobes, impacting a wide range of neurocognitive functions, including motor speed, processing speed, attention, and memory.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

10.

Congress of Neurological Surgeons Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines on the Role of Chemotherapy in the Management of Adults With Newly Diagnosed Metastatic Brain Tumors.

Author: ShermanJonathan H, LoSimon S, HarrodTom, HdeibAlia, LiYiping, RykenTimothy, OlsonJeffrey J

Brain metastases treatment

The study found that routine use of chemotherapy following whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases is not recommended. The study also found that routine use of WBRT plus temozolomide is recommended for patients with triple negative breast cancer.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

11.

Congress of Neurological Surgeons Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines on the Role of Surgery in the Management of Adults With Metastatic Brain Tumors.

Author: NahedBrian V, Alvarez-BreckenridgeChristopher, BrastianosPriscilla K, ShihHelen, SloanAndrew, AmmiratiMario, KuoJohn S, RykenTimothy C, KalkanisSteven N, OlsonJeffrey J

Improved metastatic brain tumor treatment

This guideline addresses the treatment of newly diagnosed brain tumors that have spread from other parts of the body. The guideline recommends that surgery followed by radiation therapy is the best treatment option for patients with a single brain tumor that can be surgically removed. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) plus radiation therapy may also be effective. More research is needed for patients with poor health, widespread cancer, or multiple brain tumors.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

12.

Performance of 18F-FDG, 11C-Methionine, and 18F-FET PET for Glioma Grading: A Meta-analysis.

Author: KatsanosAristeidis H, AlexiouGeorge A, FotopoulosAndreas D, JabbourPascal, KyritsisAthanasios P, SiokaChrissa

Improved glioma detection

A meta-analysis of 23 studies found that C-methionine (MET) and F-fluoroethyltyrosine (FET) PET scans were more sensitive than fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET scans in differentiating low-grade from high-grade gliomas. FDG PET was found to be more specific.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

13.

Central Neurocytoma Treatment Modalities: A Systematic Review Assessing the Outcomes of Combined Maximal Safe Resection and Radiotherapy with Gross Total Resection.

Author: MahavadiAnil K, PatelPriyen M, KuchakullaManish, ShahAshish H, EichbergDan, LutherEvan M, KomotarRicardo J, IvanMichael E

CNC survival improvement

The study found that radiation therapy (RT) is an important adjuvant treatment for central neurocytomas (CNCs). It can improve patient survival to levels comparable to those of gross total resection (GTR) with or without RT. When total resection is too risky, maximal safe resection (MSR) with RT can be considered as the next best alternative for tumor control.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

14.

When "Peripheral" Becomes "Central": Primary and Secondary Malignant Intracerebral Nerve Sheath Tumor: A Case Report and a Systematic Review.

Author: RubinoFranco, EichbergDaniel G, ShahAshish H, LutherEvan M, LuVictor M, SaadAli G, KahnDavid, KomotarRicardo J, IvanMichael E

MPNST recurrence
Poor prognosis

The intracerebral occurrence of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) is exceedingly rare. Despite aggressive treatments, local recurrence and poor prognosis are very frequent. Like other brain tumors, these tumors could be primary or secondary, making the term 'peripheral' an imprecise term for a primary brain tumor.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

15.

[The Effects of Supportive Caring on Symptoms Distress, Nursing Needs, and Depression in Patients With Brain Tumor After Surgery: A Preliminary Study].

Author: WuLi-Chu, LinYu-Hua

Improved nursing needs
Reduced depressive symptoms
Reduced symptom distress

Supportive care effectively improved nursing needs, symptom distress, and depressive symptoms in patients with brain tumors after surgery.

Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : Chinese

16.

Comparison of direct cortical stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation in brain tumor surgery: systematic review and meta analyses.

Author: IndhartyRr Suzy, JapardiIskandar, IrinaRr Sinta, TandeanSteven, SiahaanAndre Marolop Pangihutan, LoeMichael Lumintang, IvanderAlvin

Preserved function
Quality of life

Brain tumors, especially those located near important areas of the brain, are very challenging to treat. Using electrical stimulation to map out these areas before surgery may help surgeons remove the tumor safely while preserving brain function. This approach aims to reduce neurological problems and maintain quality of life for patients.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

17.

Seizure outcomes after resection of primary brain tumors in pediatric patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: KatlowitzKalman A, AthukuriPrazwal, SharmaHimanshu, DangHuy, SoniAstitva, KhanA Basit, MalbariFatema, GadgilNisha, WeinerHoward L

Brain tumor treatment
Seizure control

This study highlighted the importance of understanding factors influencing seizure outcomes in children undergoing surgery for primary brain tumors, aiming to improve treatment approaches and patient quality of life.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

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