McLeod oncologist talks about general treatment of malignant brain tumors
Senator Edward Kennedy's doctors say the Massachusetts Democrat has a malignant brain tumor. Physicians say tests conducted after the 76-year-old suffered a seizure over the weekend found the tumor.A course of treatment, which could include radiation and chemotherapy, will be decided after more tests.
President Bush, in a statement, says Kennedy has "tremendous courage, remarkable strength, and powerful spirit." He adds that he will be praying for a full recovery.
I spoke with Dr. Rhett Spencer, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology for McLeod Health in Florence. He tells me the approach to treating a brain tumor depends on how aggressive it is, and where it's located.
Dr. Spencer says depending on tumor location the results of surgery can leave defects, like not being able to speak. But in general, treatment involves surgery to remove the tumor, if it's possible. This would be followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Dr. Spencer says he sees quite a few of these cases a year.
Posted by
on 05/20 at 03:10 PM
As “un-christian” as it sounds..I have only two thoughts for the old boy..
Chappaquiddick and Karma!