
Neuro-oncology encompasses cancers that affect the brain and central nervous system. A tumor, or neoplasm, is a mass of abnormal cells that grows at an uncontrolled pace, crowding out and destroying normal tissue. Nearly half of all primary brain tumors are gliomas which arise in the supporting tissue of the brain. Most gliomas are malignant, or cancerous, and certain types grow faster than others. Meningiomas are benign, or non-cancerous, tumors that are confined to the protective membranes that surround the brain, known as the meninges.
The diagnosis of a primary brain tumor, a metastatic brain tumor, or another neurological complication of cancer can be devastating to both patient and their family. This web site has been designed to provide simple and logical explanations of neuro-oncologic conditions, and to lead the reader to available treatment options