Waiting or intervention in brain tumors

Project summary

So-called low-grade astrocytomas are rare, slow-growing brain tumors with which patients (often aged 20-45 years) can live for 10 years or more. Surgery is common, but over time chemotherapy and radiation are also required. The only question is when, as many patients experience long-lasting side effects including fatigue and cognitive impairments such as memory and concentration loss. These often cause problems in the work and home situation. For the quality of life it may therefore be better to postpone the follow-up treatment. Van den Bent compares direct follow-up treatment with a wait-and-see policy whereby follow-up treatment only follows when the tumor is moving again. The results should enable patients to make informed treatment decisions.