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Treatment of Radiation-Induced Brain Necrosis
Xiaojing Yang1, Hanru Ren2, Jie Fu1
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China.
Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity
|January 3, 2022
Summary
Radiation-induced brain necrosis (RBN) can occur after radiotherapy for brain tumors. Recent advancements show RBN may be repairable and reversible with emerging treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Radiation oncology
- Neuropathology
Background:
- Radiation-induced brain necrosis (RBN) is a severe complication following radiotherapy for intracranial and skull base tumors.
- Historically, RBN was considered progressive and irreversible due to limited treatment options.
- Advances in histopathology and neuroimaging have improved understanding of RBN's occurrence and development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of radiation-induced brain necrosis.
- To review the incidence, pathogenesis, and evolving treatment strategies for RBN.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on radiation-induced brain necrosis.
- Analysis of histopathological and neuroimaging findings related to RBN.
- Evaluation of emerging treatment modalities for RBN.
Main Results:
- RBN is a recognized complication of radiotherapy for brain tumors.
- New treatment approaches, including bevacizumab, nerve growth factor, and gangliosides, show promise.
- Evidence suggests that some cases of brain necrosis are repairable and reversible.
Conclusions:
- The understanding of RBN has significantly evolved, moving beyond its perception as irreversible.
- Emerging treatments offer potential for managing and potentially reversing RBN.
- Further research into RBN pathogenesis and treatment is warranted.
