[Radiotherapy of brain astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas of the adult]

Abstract

Gliomas are moderately radiosensitive. The main prognostic factors are the anatomicopathological type and grade of glioma, the performance status, age of the patient and the extent of the surgery. According to data from the literature, high-grade gliomas should be given 60 Gy in five weekly fractions of 1.7 to 2 Gy in a volume including tumor or tumor bed, edema and a 2- to 3-cm margin. A dose of 45 Gy would be sufficient for low-grade gliomas, according to the results of a recent randomized EORTC trial. Brachytherapy and radiosurgery techniques may be indicated in selected cases.