Brain tumor treatment: chemotherapy and other new developments.

摘要

OBJECTIVES: 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. DATA SOURCES: Published articles, research data, and reference books. CONCLUSION: 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. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: 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.