Brain Tumors

The term “brain tumor” refers to a collection of neoplasms, each with its own biology, prognosis, and treatment; these tumors are better identified as “intracranial neoplasms,” since some do not arise from brain tissue (e.g., meningiomas and lymphomas) (Table 1). However, for most intracranial tumors, the clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and initial treatment are similar. This article will focus on general presentation, diagnosis, and specific treatment.EpidemiologyThe American Cancer Society estimates that 16,800 new intracranial tumors were diagnosed in 1999, more than double the number of diagnosed cases of Hodgkin's disease and over half the number of cases of . . .