Brain Radiotherapy
A targeted treatment for tumors in the brain, given gently over sessions with a comfortable head-stabilizing mask.
Why radiotherapy is used
- Radiotherapy is used for primary brain tumors or metastases (tumors that spread from elsewhere).
- The goal may be curative, controlling the tumor and its symptoms, or reducing the risk of return after surgery.
- Your doctor decides the best approach based on the tumor type, location, and number.
The area being treated
- The tumor alone with a small margin may be treated (focused local treatment).
- In some cases the whole brain is treated (whole-brain radiotherapy) when there are multiple metastases.
- Radiosurgery delivers a high dose very precisely to a small lesion in one or a few sessions.
Preparing for CT simulation
- A light head-stabilizing mask is made to keep the same position precisely every day; it is comfortable and does not cover your breathing.
- An MRI scan may be done and fused with the CT to define the tumor with high precision.
- If you take medication such as steroids to reduce swelling, continue it as your doctor prescribed.
Positioning & immobilization
- You lie on your back and your head is held by the mask in a stable, comfortable position.
- Precise stillness is essential to protect the healthy brain tissue.
- The session is short and painless, and the team watches you throughout.
How your treatment is planned
- Your doctor outlines the tumor with high precision using MRI and CT, and marks sensitive structures such as the eyes, optic nerves, brainstem, and hippocampus (the memory center).
- The plan is designed to direct the dose to the tumor while protecting these structures as much as possible.
- In whole-brain cases we may try to protect the memory area (hippocampus) to reduce the effect on thinking.
Early (acute) side effects
- Noticeable fatigue that may increase during treatment and for weeks after.
- Hair loss where the beams enter and exit (may be temporary or permanent depending on dose).
- Redness or itching of the scalp.
- Headache or mild nausea, usually managed with medication such as steroids when needed.
Possible late side effects
- Changes in memory or concentration that may appear gradually, especially with whole-brain treatment.
- Mild chronic fatigue in some patients.
- Changes in hearing or vision if near the treatment area.
- Rare effects on healthy brain tissue appearing after months.
When to contact us immediately
- A new or worsening severe headache, especially with vomiting
- A new seizure
- Sudden weakness or numbness in a limb, or difficulty speaking or seeing
- A change in awareness or unusual heavy drowsiness
- Fever with headache and a stiff neck
If any of these appear, contact your treatment team immediately or go to the emergency department.
How to prepare
- Continue your medications (such as steroids or anti-seizure drugs) exactly as prescribed, and do not stop them suddenly.
- Arrange someone to accompany and drive you if you feel fatigued or dizzy.
- Use gentle scalp products and avoid high heat and dyes.
- Note any change in neurological symptoms and report it to your team.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Will my treatment be focused or whole-brain? And why?
- What is the expected effect on my memory and concentration?
- Will my hair fall out, and will it grow back?
- Should I continue steroids and anti-seizure medication?
- Can I drive and work during treatment?
Important notice
This platform is for explanation and education only and does not replace medical advice. Your treating physician is the final source of truth for your condition and treatment plan. Do not make any treatment decision based on this content alone.