Neurotoxicity from Old and New Radiation Treatments for Brain Tumors

Abstract

Research regarding the mechanisms of brain damage following radiation treatments for brain tumors has increased over the years, thus providing a deeper insight into the pathobiological mechanisms and suggesting new approaches to minimize this damage. This review has discussed the different factors that are known to influence the risk of damage to the brain (mainly cognitive disturbances) from radiation. These include patient and tumor characteristics, the use of whole-brain radiotherapy versus particle therapy (protons, carbon ions), and stereotactic radiotherapy in various modalities. Additionally, biological mechanisms behind neuroprotection have been elucidated.