Tumors of the Brain and Spine

Our rapidly increasing knowledge about tumors of the brain and spine has rendered these tumors more treatable than ever before. In the new world of central nervous system oncology, maximally complete resection is followed by conformal radiotherapy and often by chemotherapy, the selection of which is based on the tumor's susceptibility to drugs that have biological actions known to interact with the tumor's particular molecular signature. The chapters of this book collectively weave a tapestry depicting the range of medical, surgical, and radiotherapeutic approaches to neuro-oncology as it is practiced at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, along with the diversity of disciplines needed for effective therapy. M. D. Anderson faculty describe their current approaches to patient assessment, decision making, and management of central nervous system tumors, including treatment for either palliation or for cure. Tumors of the Brain and Spine is the sixth book in the M. D. Anderson Cancer Care Series. This book, like the others in this series, highlights integrated care and focuses on treating the patient through the entire spectrum of the disease. This thorough, practical volume, which includes more than 70 illustrations and 30 tables, is an essential clinical guide for oncologists, surgeons, and other health care providers involved in the care of patients with central nervous system tumors.