Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

Quantifying Cognitive Decrements Caused by Cranial Radiotherapy
Published on: October 18, 2011
Challenges with the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral radiation necrosis
Samuel T Chao1, Manmeet S Ahluwalia, Gene H Barnett
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio; Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
Abstract:
The incidence of radiation necrosis has increased secondary to greater use of combined modality therapy for brain tumors and stereotactic radiosurgery. Given that its characteristics on standard imaging are no different that tumor recurrence, it is difficult to diagnose without use of more sophisticated imaging and nuclear medicine scans, although the accuracy of such scans is controversial. Historically, treatment had been limited to steroids, hyperbaric oxygen, anticoagulants, and surgical resection. A recent prospective randomized study has confirmed the efficacy of bevacizumab in treating radiation necrosis. Novel therapies include using focused interstitial laser thermal therapy. This article will review the diagnosis and treatment of radiation necrosis.
Related Concept Videos
Cytotoxic Edema: Pathophysiology
Brain Abscess l: Introduction
Cerebral Edema ll: Pathophysiology
Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
Ischemic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
