Chemotherapy for glioneuronal tumors

Glioneuronal tumors are rare primary brain tumors. They are composed of both glial and neuronal elements. In most cases, they are benign tumors that are often cured with surgical resection. For this reason, histologic diagnosis is important in order to avoid unnecessary treatment with radiation therapy (RT) or chemotherapy (CTX). RT is sometimes used to treat residual or aggressive tumors. The role of CTX for these tumors is not well defined or not indicated. This chapter reviews the available literature on the use of CTX to treat glioneuronal tumors and when it may be indicated. Reasons to use CTX include recurrent tumors after radiation, in place of RT to avoid the long-term sequelae in young patients and for patients who refuse RT. A framework for which agents may be of benefit should assist physicians when chemotherapy is needed.