Radiation therapy strategies for skull-base malignancies

J Neurooncol. 2020 Dec;150(3):445-462. doi: 10.1007/s11060-020-03569-7. Epub 2020 Aug 12.

Abstract

Introduction: The management of skull base malignancies continues to evolve with improvements in surgical technique, advances in radiation delivery and novel systemic agents.

Methods: In this review, we aim to discuss in detail the management of common skull base pathologies which typically require multimodality therapy, focusing on the radiotherapeutic aspects of care.

Results: Technological advances in the administration of radiation therapy have led to a wide variety of different treatment strategies for the treatment of skull base malignances, with outcomes summarized herein.

Conclusion: Radiation treatment plays a key and critical role in the management of patients with skull base tumors. Recent advancements continue to improve the risk/benefit ratio for radiotherapy in this setting.

Keywords: Gamma knife radiosurgery; Intensity modulated proton therapy; Intensity modulated radiation therapy; Proton therapy; Radiation; Skull base; Stereotactic radiosurgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Management
  • Humans
  • Radiotherapy / methods*
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / pathology
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / radiotherapy*