Abstract

Neurooncology is a specialized discipline dedicated to the study and treatment of tumors affecting the central nervous system (CNS), including both primary and secondary malignancies. This field has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years, primarily driven by progress in molecular biology, neuroimaging, and surgical techniques. The types of CNS tumors include gliomas, meningiomas, and medulloblastomas, each with distinct biological behaviors and clinical presentations. Advancements in diagnostic methodologies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional MRI (fMRI), and molecular diagnostics, have significantly improved the accuracy of tumor characterization and the identification of genetic mutations, facilitating personalized treatment approaches. The recognition of specific biomarkers, like O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation in glioblastoma, has further refined prognostic assessments and therapeutic strategies. Treatment modalities for CNS tumors are multifaceted, encompassing surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgical intervention aims to achieve maximal tumor removal while preserving neurological function, bolstered by technological innovations like intraoperative MRI and neuronavigation. Radiation therapy, including stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), is essential for managing tumors that are either unresectable or residual after surgery. Chemotherapeutic regimens, particularly with temozolomide for glioblastomas, have become standard, while emerging immunotherapy options, such as checkpoint inhibitors, hold promise for enhancing treatment efficacy.