Leksell Radiosurgery for Ependymomas and Oligodendrogliomas

Abstract

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has become a standard management option for less common glial tumors. When imaging defines a recurrent or progressive ependymoma after initial resection in a child who has completed adjuvant fractionated radiation therapy, SRS may be used as a boost or salvage strategy. For patients with oligodendrogliomas diagnosed by biopsy or after cytoreductive surgery, SRS may be used as a primary option in smaller volume tumors, or as an adjuvant option for tumors that have progressed after initial surgery, chemotherapy, or fractionated radiation therapy. Currently the increasing use of molecular markers in both tumors helps to define the prognosis, risk of recurrence, and perhaps response to boost or salvage SRS. This report examines the role of SRS in these less common glial tumors.