Adult central nervous system tumors

Radiation therapy plays a key role in the treatment of brain tumors. However, substantial concerns remain both for patients and practitioners regarding the adverse effects of radiation therapy. This is particularly true for long-term side effects after radiation for primary brain tumors, which may include endocrine deficits or cognitive deficiencies, among others. The potential for side effects becomes increasingly important as our ability to identify patients who are likely to achieve long-term survival improves. The physical properties of proton therapy allow greater normal tissue sparing in comparison with photons, and therefore, rates of long-term adverse effects are predicted to be less. Based on this, widespread interest has been expressed in the use of proton therapy for the treatment of primary brain tumors. In this review, we highlight published clinical studies in which proton therapy is used for the treatment of brain tumors as well as areas for additional investigation.