Neuro-Oncologists
What is a Neuro-Oncologist?
A neuro-oncologist is a physician trained to diagnose and manage care of patients with tumors in the brain and other parts of the nervous system. Neuro-oncologists also provide care to patients with neurological complications from cancer or cancer treatments, such as brain tumors that cause seizures or cognitive issues. To become a neuro-oncologist, a physician must complete a residency and fellowship that prepare them to treat brain tumors and the neurological complications of cancer.
What you can expect at UTHealth Neurosciences
UTHealth Neurosciences brings together a multidisciplinary team of board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeons, neurologists, researchers, and pain management specialists who works to help provide relief for even the most complex problems. Your team will share insights, leading to better treatment decisions and outcomes.
We first investigate nonsurgical treatment options, including medical management, pain management, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and watchful waiting. When surgery is needed, our neurosurgeons routinely employ innovative minimally invasive techniques. Throughout the treatment process, we will work closely with the doctor who referred you to ensure a smooth transition back to your regular care. While you are with us, you will receive expert care, excellent communication, and genuine compassion.
When to see a Neuro-Oncologist
Patients typically present symptoms, such as seizures, headaches, memory loss, or behavior change, that prompt their physician to order an MRI, where a tumor may be detected. A neurosurgeon will typically remove a piece of the tumor for analysis. Types of neurological cancers include astrocytomas, gliomas, ependymoma, glioblastoma multiforme, and choroid plexus tumors.
A neuro-oncologist will help determine the best treatment plan for patients with tumors on the brain or spinal cord, with cancer that has matastasized to the nervous system, and with other neurological conditions related to cancer.
What to expect during a visit to a Neuro-Oncologist
At a neuro-oncology consultation, your medical team will carefully review any brain or spine imaging that led to the diagnosis of the tumor. Your neuro-oncologist will perform a thorough physical examination and discuss any symptoms you might be experiencing. The team will then discuss treatment plan options for the patient. Follow-up and specialty visits will be coordinated as necessary.
Treatments by Neuro-Oncologists
A neuro-oncologist is trained to use chemotherapy and immune therapy techniques to treat neurological cancer or cancer-related conditions. Neuro-oncologists can also work with neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists to provide a multidisciplinary approach to treatment options.
Contact Us
At UTHealth Neurosciences, we offer patients access to specialized neurological care at clinics across the greater Houston area. To ask us a question, schedule an appointment, or learn more about us, please click below to send us a message. In the event of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.