25+ specialists across a range of fields convenes weekly to discuss cases, formulate an optimal treatment plan and coordinate care with numerous specialties across Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Our Approach to Brain Tumor Treatment
The Johns Hopkins Difference
By partnering with the Comprehensive Brain Tumor Center, you will have access to the most advanced treatment options delivered by the field's leading experts who treat hundreds of brain tumors every year.
Collaboration
Discovery and Innovation
Our experts don't just treat brain tumors, they study them in the lab, too, gaining deeper insight into how the disease works and which clinical trials might benefit specific patients.
Personalization
Our specialists consider many factors that guide their care recommendations, including your medical history, tumor location, type, grade, aggressiveness, tumor genetics and more.
Our Approach to Brain Tumor Care
Addressing the Tumor
Brain tumors may require an array of treatments depending on whether the tumor is cancerous or benign and where in the brain it’s located.
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Brain Tumor Surgery
Our neurosurgeons are skilled in many surgical techniques and approaches. They work alongside neuroplastic surgeons to make sure your appearance is preserved after tumor removal.
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Neuro-Oncology
Neuro-oncologists are physicians with expertise in nervous system tumors. They can help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan and manage neurological effects of cancer or cancer treatment.
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Radiation Oncology
Radiation oncologists are experts in radiation therapies, including targeted radiation used to shrink or halt brain cancer. They help determine the best timing, dose and delivery of radiation treatment.
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Imaging
Neuro-radiology and imaging specialists are experts in brain imaging techniques. Accurate imaging helps neuro-oncologists and surgeons make a diagnosis, informs treatment plans and guides surgical and radiation treatments.
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Pathology
Pathologists examine the tumor from a sample or after it’s been removed to confirm whether it’s benign or malignant and to determine its grade and classification. They also test the tumor for certain genetic markers to determine its origin.
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Genetics
Geneticists analyze the DNA of the tumor cells for genetic mutations. This can help determine if you are a fit for a clinical trial. Genetic counselors offer education and guidance on brain tumors related to genetic conditions.
Supporting You in Brain Tumor Care
Once the tumor has been treated, you may need additional care. Johns Hopkins offers a variety of services to help you feel like you again.
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Rehabilitation Therapy
Physical, occupation and speech-language therapists work with you to address speech, swallowing, movement, balance and other impairments resulting from the tumor or tumor treatment.
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Hearing and Vision Care
If you develop problems with vision or hearing during brain tumor treatment, specialists in otolaryngology and neuro-ophthalmology can recommend how to restore these senses as much as possible.
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Patient and Family Services / Social Work
Patient and family services program at the Kimmel Cancer Center offers emotional support, housing and transportation assistance, help with finances and legal matters, and other day-to-day coping support for people with cancer.
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Fertility Preservation
Brain cancer treatment can affect fertility. If it’s a concern for you, our team of specialists can help you choose the right fertility preservation method.
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Palliative Care
Palliative care specialists help make sure you are comfortable and pain-free during your brain tumor treatment, as well as support you and your family in many ways as you are dealing with an illness.
Brain Tumor Treatment Advances
Brain tumors researchers and clinicians are developing new therapies to improve patients' treatment outcomes and minimize common side effects. Explore recent innovations:
Collaborative Care for Better Outcomes
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Neuroplastic Surgery
When a neurosurgeon works alongside a plastic surgeon, you get the best of both worlds: effective treatment for your condition and simultaneous reconstruction of any resulting skull defects.
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Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center
Kimmel Cancer Center offers vast resources for those diagnosed with brain cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, radiosurgery, clinical trials and more. Our close collaboration ensures smooth coordination of care for patients who can benefit from these treatments.
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Proton Therapy
Many children and adults with certain types of brain cancer can benefit from proton radiation therapy known for its ability to zero-in on the tumor with minimal effects to the surrounding tissue.
From Our Experts More About Our Treatment Approaches
In these videos, our experts across multiple specialties discuss different brain tumor treatment approaches.
Request an Appointment
In-person and telemedicine appointments are available for initial consultations and follow-up care.
For patients seeking an evaluation for a brain tumor:
Adult Neurosurgery
Pediatric Neurosurgery
For patients diagnosed with brain cancer who need a consultation with an oncologist:
Kimmel Cancer Center
For international patients traveling to the U.S. to receive care:
Request an appointment online
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