Recurrent Cancer Medulloblastoma that recurs after radiotherapy should be considered for treatment with investigational protocols using new agents. Fewer than one-third of those patients respond and long-term control of disease is unusual.
Cerebellar Astrocytoma
These are generally low-grade tumors in the cerebellum. Spread is unusual.
Standard Treatment The primary treatment is surgical removal of the tumor, which is successful in removing all the tumor in most cases. In contrast to most other brain tumors, some patients with microscopic and even larger residual tumor after surgery may survive a long time without any symptoms or tumor growth even without postoperative therapy. This may be significant because a second operation may produce neurologic problems.
The use of radiation therapy for patients with residual tumor after surgery is under discussion. Some radiation oncologists treat all patients with residual disease, others withhold treatment until the tumor starts to grow.
