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Advances in Brain Tumors

A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694). This special issue belongs to the section "Clinical Research of Cancer".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2026 | Viewed by 346

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
Interests: stroke; neurological surgery; brain tumors
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Brain tumors pose a unique challenge for patients and providers due to the intricate nature of the brain and the aggressive molecular biology of many brain cancers. Despite substantial research investment, the treatment of malignant brain tumors has only seen minimal progress over the past four decades. This urgent need underscores the imperative for innovative technologies in diagnosis, imaging, surgery, and adjuvant treatment.

This Special Issue aims to present cutting-edge tools and techniques that have the potential to revolutionize these areas. Advanced diagnostic techniques including the use of liquid biopsies and biomarkers will be presented.  It will delve into advanced imaging techniques, such as the use of artificial intelligence for molecular subtype diagnosis, and intraoperative methods that enhance outcomes, minimize risks, and provide immediate diagnostic insights. Additionally, the Special Issue will showcase new and effective therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapy and minimally invasive, less toxic, and more effective treatments.

By providing readers with unique tools and therapies, this Special Issue seeks to empower them in the pursuit of more effective diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors.

Prof. Dr. David S. Baskin
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Cancers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • diagnosis
  • biomarker
  • treatment
  • brain tumors

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Review

18 pages, 1152 KB  
Review
Brain Tumors in Pregnancy: A Review of Pathophysiology, Clinical Management, and Ethical Dilemmas
by Muratbek A. Tleubergenov, Daniyar K. Zhamoldin, Dauren S. Baymukhanov, Assel S. Omarova, Nurzhan A. Ryskeldiyev, Aidos Doskaliyev, Talshyn M. Ukybassova and Serik Akshulakov
Cancers 2025, 17(23), 3854; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17233854 - 30 Nov 2025
Viewed by 221
Abstract
Background: Central nervous system (CNS) tumors during pregnancy are rare but present significant diagnostic, therapeutic, and ethical challenges. These include both primary and metastatic lesions, which share overlapping clinical features and management complexities. Their clinical course is influenced by gestational physiological changes, which [...] Read more.
Background: Central nervous system (CNS) tumors during pregnancy are rare but present significant diagnostic, therapeutic, and ethical challenges. These include both primary and metastatic lesions, which share overlapping clinical features and management complexities. Their clinical course is influenced by gestational physiological changes, which can mask symptoms and delay diagnosis, thereby increasing maternal and fetal risks. Objective: This review aims to synthesize current evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, treatment options, prognosis, and ethical considerations related to CNS tumors in pregnant patients. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, including retrospective and prospective studies, clinical guidelines, and systematic reviews focusing on brain and spinal tumors diagnosed during pregnancy. Particular attention was given to the impact of gestational age, tumor histology, and maternal condition on treatment outcomes. Results: Hormone-sensitive tumors such as meningiomas and prolactinomas may exhibit accelerated growth during pregnancy due to elevated progesterone and prolactin levels. Diagnosis is often delayed due to symptom overlap with normal gestational changes. MRI without contrast remains the imaging modality of choice. Glucocorticoids and selected chemotherapy agents can be cautiously used depending on gestational age. Surgical resection, particularly in the second trimester, has been shown to be safe and effective in appropriate clinical scenarios. Multidisciplinary coordination is essential. Prognosis varies based on tumor type and timing of intervention, with maternal survival prioritized in high-risk situations. Ethical management hinges on patient autonomy, informed consent, and proportionality of medical interventions. Conclusions: CNS tumors during pregnancy require early recognition, individualized treatment planning, and ethical vigilance. Multidisciplinary collaboration is vital to optimizing outcomes for both mother and fetus. Future efforts should focus on developing standardized protocols and expanding evidence through multicenter studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Brain Tumors)
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