Highlights
Temozolomide (Temodar) for Glioblastoma
- In 2005, the FDA approved temozolomide for treating glioblastoma multiforme. Temozolomide was previously approved only for anaplastic astrocytoma. A 2005 study found that patients with glioblastoma who received temozolomide and radiation had better survival outcomes than patients who received only radiation. Temozolomide is taken by mouth and has relatively few side effects.
Chemotherapy for Medulloblastoma
- Medulloblastoma, the most common form of childhood brain tumor, is usually treated with surgery and radiation therapy. However, radiation therapy has severe side effects. A 2005 landmark study investigated a combination chemotherapy regimen instead of radiation for very young children (under 3 years). Most children with non-metastasized medulloblastoma had an excellent outcome and were able to avoid radiation.
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Brain Tumor Care and Recommended Guidelines
Patients with brain tumors do not always receive the care recommended by national guidelines, according to a 2005 Journal of the American Medical Association study. The study evaluated nearly 800 patients with grade III or grade IV glioma who were treated at academic and community hospitals. Researchers discovered:
- Nearly 90% of patients were treated with antiepileptic drugs, although only 32% of the patients had seizures. These drugs do not prevent first seizures and guidelines recommend against giving them to patients with newly diagnosed brain tumors.
- Only 8% of patients received antidepressant medication even though over 90% reported depressive symptoms.
- Only 7% of patients received the blood-thinning drug heparin at the time of surgery. Blood clots can occur in many patients who have brain tumor surgery.
- Only 15% of patients participated in clinical trials, although most patients were treated at academic medical centers.
- Only half of patients received chemotherapy in addition to radiation and surgery.
- As recommended, most patients did receive an MRI at diagnosis, surgical resection, and radiation following surgery.
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