Clinical Neuro Oncology

Clinical Neuro-Oncology is a field of Medicine devoted to the management of diseases of the nervous system and their related structures which are caused by abnormal cell growth in brain and spinal cord. This field integrates treatment with prevention, diagnosis, rehabilitation, palliative care, epidemiology and research. The clinical management of Neuro-Oncologic disorders relies on a combination of medical, surgical and radiation treatments which are administered according to individual patient and tumour characteristics. Neuro-Oncology also encompasses the psycho-social care of an individual diagnosed with a tumour, and their family. Neuro-Oncologic diagnosis is based on a range of investigations, such as MRI and CT, that are used for diagnosis, staging and to measure treatment response. Surgery is used to remove gross tumour, alleviate pressure, diagnose and stage pathology and in some cases undertake neuro-navigation/stereo tactics biopsies. Medical care of Neuro-Oncologic diseases relies on even newer and advanced chemo and targeted therapy drugs. Radiation therapy is used as adjuvant therapy in certain Neuro-Oncologic scenarios. The science of Neuro-oncology has evolved impressively over the last few years with advances in technology, medical and surgical interventions, and the range of chemotherapy and targeted therapies now available. Rehabilitation is a critical component of Neuro-Oncology as physical, psychological and social deficits can result when neuro-oncologic conditions arise. Physical, occupational and speech therapies, psychological therapies and cognitive rehabilitation are some of the interventions that are tailored to individual patient needs. Finally, palliative care is essential for individuals and their families across all stages of a Neuro-Oncologic disorder. Palliative care can provide pain and symptom management, psychosocial and spiritual support, spiritual or religious care, and supportive care for anxiety and depression.