Managing Disease and Therapy-Related Complications in Patients with Central Nervous System Tumors

Treating patients with brain tumors can be divided into tumor-directed therapies, the management of tumor-related symptoms and complications and the psychosocial aspect of patient care. In this review, we will discuss the management of disease and treatment-related complications, which can negatively impact patient quality of life and functional status. Brain edema is a common complication or brain tumors and often causes more symptoms than the tumor itself. Treatment options are limited to the use of corticosteroids, which although effective have a plethora of side effects, so the goal should be the lowest dose that maximizes symptoms. Seizures are more common in lower grade brain tumors and treatment should be limited to patients who have seizures using agents that do not affect the metabolism of other drugs, especially chemotherapies. Blood clots are also common in patients and although there is a “fear” of tumoral bleeding, this is not a frequent occurrence; hence, using anticoagulants should be routinely used in patients who experience this complication.