[Emergent Surgery for Brain Tumors]

Brain tumors are relatively rare when compared with other malignancies. However, because the central nervous system governs the functions of the entire body, brain tumors can lead to significant morbidity and, ultimately, mortality if they are not treated appropriately and in a timely manner. These conditions are referred to as "neuro-oncologic emergencies," in which neurosurgeons play a central role in management. This review outlines the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying neuro-oncologic emergencies and discusses the role of emergent surgical intervention in supratentorial tumors, infratentorial tumors, and pituitary apoplexy, with reference to the current literature.