[Therapy of malignant brain tumors]

The operative removal of the tumour mass as early and completely as possible is the most important step in the treatment of malignant brain tumours, whereby the quality of life must be maintained as a prerequisite. The operation is followed by radiotherapy at a dosage of 60 Gy which again is followed by chemotherapy with CCNU and Oncovin. New strategies in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hyperthermia and photochemotherapy will be evaluated over the coming years. The therapy of malignant brain tumours represents a universal challenge, and despite the only small increase in life span by 6-9 months, this must be considered a partial progress in the combat against brain tumours.