Radiotherapy and Chemo for CNS tumours

Question 1

What is the gen presentation for CNS tumours?

Answer 1

> Focal signs - localised to where tumour is
Seizures
Pressure symptom: Headache or lower consciousness

Question 2

A 40 year old right handed plumber presents to A & E after a fit and has a 2 week history of gradually increasing numbness and weakness of right side.
Where is the lesion?

Answer 2

Left hemisphere - both sides of central sulcus (fronts-parietal region)

Question 3

A 30 year old mother can’t make her children understand what she is trying to say. She seems to understand what is said to her. She is right handed.
Where is the lesion?

Answer 3

Left temporo-frontal region

Question 4

A 50 year old company director becomes withdrawn, apathetic and bad-tempered - then develops headaches and vomiting.
Where is the lesion?

Answer 4

Frontal region

Question 5

A 55 year old window dresser can’t dress herself properly, has numbness down one side and develops headaches
Which lobe of the brain is likely to be affected?

Answer 5

Parietal lobe: sensory loss, dyspraxia, inattention

Question 6

What are the short term side effects of radiotherapy?

Answer 6

> Cerebral oedema causes raised ICP
Hair loss
Scalp Erythema

Question 7

What are the long term and late effects of radiotherapy?

Answer 7

> Somnolence syndrome - severe tiredness

> Damage to the sensitive structures.

Question 8

What type of tumours can be cured using a combo of radiotherapy and chemo?

Answer 8

RARER TUMOURS

Germ cell, medulloblastoma.