Brain Cancer & Brain Tumour Treatment in Bangalore
Brain tumour treatment requires careful diagnosis, accurate imaging, multidisciplinary decision-making and a treatment plan tailored to the tumour and the individual patient. Dr. S. D. Shamsundar provides personalised radiation oncology care using modern precision radiation techniques for selected brain tumours and brain metastases.
Precision Radiation for Selected Brain Tumours
Modern techniques such as stereotactic radiosurgery, image-guided radiation therapy and advanced treatment planning can help deliver radiation accurately while limiting exposure to surrounding normal tissue when clinically appropriate.
What is the treatment for a brain tumour?
Treatment depends on the type, grade, size and location of the tumour, its molecular characteristics, whether it is a primary brain tumour or has spread from another cancer, previous treatment and the patient’s overall health. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, systemic treatment, active surveillance, supportive care or a combination of approaches.
Brain tumour treatment is highly individualised
A diagnosis of a brain tumour can be overwhelming. However, there is no single treatment that is appropriate for every patient. The treatment strategy depends on the exact diagnosis and several clinical factors.
These may include the tumour’s type, grade, size, location, molecular characteristics, growth pattern, previous treatment and the patient’s age and overall health.
Radiation therapy can have an important role in the management of selected brain tumours. It may be used after surgery, as part of combined treatment, as a primary treatment for selected tumours, or to control symptoms caused by cancer involving the brain.
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar evaluates each patient’s clinical history, imaging and pathology before determining whether radiation therapy has a role in the treatment plan.
What types of brain tumours may require treatment?
Brain tumours include many different diseases. Treatment is determined by the specific diagnosis rather than by the word “brain tumour” alone.
Gliomas
Gliomas arise from cells within the central nervous system. Treatment depends on the tumour type, grade, molecular characteristics and clinical situation.
Glioblastoma
Glioblastoma is an aggressive high-grade brain tumour that generally requires coordinated multidisciplinary treatment, often involving surgery, radiation and systemic therapy.
Meningioma
Many meningiomas are slow-growing. Depending on size, location, growth and symptoms, observation, surgery or radiation-based treatment may be considered.
Other Primary Brain Tumours
Other primary central nervous system tumours require diagnosis-specific treatment based on pathology, imaging and other clinical characteristics.
Brain Metastases
Cancer from another part of the body can spread to the brain. Selected patients may benefit from focused radiation such as stereotactic radiosurgery.
Recurrent Brain Tumours
When a brain tumour returns, treatment depends on the previous therapy, location of recurrence, overall health and available treatment options.
How is a brain tumour diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of an appropriate brain tumour treatment plan. The evaluation may involve several specialists and investigations.
- Clinical and neurological assessment
- MRI or other appropriate brain imaging
- Biopsy or surgical pathology where indicated
- Histopathological diagnosis
- Molecular or genetic testing where clinically appropriate
- Assessment of tumour grade and extent
- Review of previous treatment
- Multidisciplinary treatment discussion
Radiation therapy for brain tumours
Radiation therapy may be used in different ways depending on the diagnosis, treatment objective and clinical circumstances.
External Beam Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation uses high-energy radiation delivered from a treatment machine to a carefully defined target. It may be used after surgery, with systemic treatment or as the primary treatment for selected tumours.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)
SRS delivers highly focused radiation to a defined target. Despite its name, it is a non-surgical radiation treatment. It may be considered for selected small brain tumours or brain metastases.
Fractionated Stereotactic Radiation
In selected situations, stereotactic radiation may be delivered over multiple treatment sessions rather than as a single treatment.
Whole Brain Radiation Therapy
Whole brain radiation treats a broader area of the brain and may be considered in selected clinical situations, particularly when there are multiple brain metastases or other specific treatment indications.
Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
IGRT uses imaging during the treatment process to improve treatment accuracy and verify patient positioning.
IMRT / VMAT
Advanced planning and delivery techniques such as IMRT and VMAT can help shape radiation dose around the target while limiting radiation exposure to nearby normal structures.
What is stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)?
Stereotactic radiosurgery is a highly precise form of radiation treatment that delivers radiation to a defined target while attempting to limit unnecessary exposure to surrounding normal tissue.
SRS is not appropriate for every brain tumour. Its suitability depends on factors such as tumour size, number, location, previous treatment and the patient’s overall clinical condition.
Dr. Shamsundar has advanced fellowship training in stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy.
Discuss SRS With Dr. ShamsundarIs radiation therapy needed after brain tumour surgery?
Not every patient needs radiation therapy after surgery. The need for postoperative radiation depends on factors such as the tumour type, grade, molecular characteristics, extent of surgical removal, recurrence risk and the overall treatment plan.
For some high-grade brain tumours, postoperative radiation may form an important part of combined treatment. In other tumours, observation or another treatment strategy may be appropriate.
How is brain radiation therapy planned?
Radiation treatment is planned individually. The exact pathway varies according to the diagnosis and treatment objective.
Consultation
Review of symptoms, medical history, pathology, scans and previous treatment.
Imaging & Assessment
Relevant imaging and clinical information are reviewed to define the treatment target.
Treatment Planning
Radiation dose, technique and treatment schedule are individualised.
Radiation Delivery
Treatment is delivered using the selected radiation technique and image guidance where appropriate.
What are the possible side effects of brain radiation therapy?
Side effects vary depending on the area treated, radiation dose, treatment technique and individual patient factors.
Fatigue
Tiredness may occur during or after a course of radiation treatment and can vary between patients.
Hair Loss
Hair loss can occur in the area receiving radiation and may be temporary or longer-lasting depending on treatment factors.
Headache or Nausea
Some patients may experience headache or nausea. Your oncology team can advise on appropriate supportive treatment.
Brain Swelling
Radiation can occasionally contribute to swelling around the treatment area. Your medical team monitors for relevant symptoms.
Neurological Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the tumour and the area being treated.
Longer-Term Effects
Potential longer-term effects depend on treatment dose, location, technique and individual patient factors.
Your radiation oncologist should explain the expected benefits, potential risks and likely side effects before treatment begins. During treatment, symptoms are monitored and supportive care is provided when needed.
When should you consider a second opinion for a brain tumour?
A second opinion can help when a diagnosis is complex, several treatment options are available or you would like another specialist’s perspective before starting treatment.
- You have recently been diagnosed with a brain tumour
- Surgery has been recommended and you want to understand whether radiation may also have a role
- Radiation therapy has been suggested and you want to understand the treatment options
- The tumour has returned after previous treatment
- You have brain metastases and want to understand local treatment options
- You would like an independent review of your treatment plan
Meet Dr. S. D. Shamsundar
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar, MBBS, MD, FAROI
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar is a Radiation Oncologist with more than a decade of experience in radiation oncology and expertise in modern precision radiation techniques.
His clinical expertise includes IMRT, IGRT, VMAT, SRS, SBRT, precision radiation planning and multidisciplinary cancer care.
He has also completed advanced fellowship training in stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy.
View Dr. Shamsundar’s full profile →Why patients seek specialist radiation oncology care
Precision Treatment Planning
Radiation plans are designed around the tumour and important nearby normal structures.
Brain Tumour Expertise
Specialised radiation oncology assessment for selected primary brain tumours and brain metastases.
Multidisciplinary Care
Brain tumour treatment may involve neurosurgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology and pathology.
Evidence-Based Decisions
Treatment recommendations should be based on the diagnosis, available clinical evidence and individual patient factors.
Clear Treatment Discussions
Patients can understand the purpose of radiation, expected benefits, possible risks and treatment alternatives.
Patient-Centred Care
Treatment planning considers the patient’s clinical needs, goals and quality of life.
Brain tumour care may require more than radiation therapy
Depending on the diagnosis, patients may require surgery, systemic treatment, radiation therapy, supportive care or combinations of these approaches.
Multidisciplinary cancer care brings together specialists from different oncology disciplines to evaluate the diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment strategy.
If you would like to understand how surgical oncology, medical oncology and radiation oncology can work together, explore the multidisciplinary cancer care services at Precision Oncology Clinic, Bangalore .
Explore Multidisciplinary Cancer Care →Frequently Asked Questions About Brain Tumour Treatment
Clear answers to common questions about brain tumour treatment, radiation therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery.
What is the treatment for brain cancer?
Can brain tumours be treated with radiation therapy?
Is radiation needed after brain tumour surgery?
What is stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)?
Is SRS the same as brain surgery?
Can radiation treat brain metastases?
What is the difference between SRS and whole brain radiation?
What are the side effects of brain radiation therapy?
How long does brain radiation treatment take?
Can a brain tumour come back after treatment?
When should I seek a second opinion for a brain tumour?
How can I consult Dr. S. D. Shamsundar in Bangalore?
Have You Been Diagnosed With a Brain Tumour?
Bring your MRI or CT scans, pathology reports and previous treatment records. A radiation oncology consultation can help you understand whether radiation therapy may have a role in your treatment plan.
Medical Information Sources
This page is intended for general patient education and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Treatment decisions should be made after evaluation by the appropriate oncology team.
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) – Adult Central Nervous System Tumours
- American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) – Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases
- Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) – Neuro-oncology clinical information
Brain Cancer & Brain Tumour Treatment in Bangalore
Brain tumour treatment requires careful diagnosis, accurate imaging, multidisciplinary decision-making and a treatment plan tailored to the tumour and the individual patient. Dr. S. D. Shamsundar provides personalised radiation oncology care using modern precision radiation techniques for selected brain tumours and brain metastases.
Precision Radiation for Selected Brain Tumours
Modern techniques such as stereotactic radiosurgery, image-guided radiation therapy and advanced treatment planning can help deliver radiation accurately while limiting exposure to surrounding normal tissue when clinically appropriate.
What is the treatment for a brain tumour?
Treatment depends on the type, grade, size and location of the tumour, its molecular characteristics, whether it is a primary brain tumour or has spread from another cancer, previous treatment and the patient’s overall health. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, systemic treatment, active surveillance, supportive care or a combination of approaches.
Brain tumour treatment is highly individualised
A diagnosis of a brain tumour can be overwhelming. However, there is no single treatment that is appropriate for every patient. The treatment strategy depends on the exact diagnosis and several clinical factors.
These may include the tumour’s type, grade, size, location, molecular characteristics, growth pattern, previous treatment and the patient’s age and overall health.
Radiation therapy can have an important role in the management of selected brain tumours. It may be used after surgery, as part of combined treatment, as a primary treatment for selected tumours, or to control symptoms caused by cancer involving the brain.
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar evaluates each patient’s clinical history, imaging and pathology before determining whether radiation therapy has a role in the treatment plan.
What types of brain tumours may require treatment?
Brain tumours include many different diseases. Treatment is determined by the specific diagnosis rather than by the word “brain tumour” alone.
Gliomas
Gliomas arise from cells within the central nervous system. Treatment depends on the tumour type, grade, molecular characteristics and clinical situation.
Glioblastoma
Glioblastoma is an aggressive high-grade brain tumour that generally requires coordinated multidisciplinary treatment, often involving surgery, radiation and systemic therapy.
Meningioma
Many meningiomas are slow-growing. Depending on size, location, growth and symptoms, observation, surgery or radiation-based treatment may be considered.
Other Primary Brain Tumours
Other primary central nervous system tumours require diagnosis-specific treatment based on pathology, imaging and other clinical characteristics.
Brain Metastases
Cancer from another part of the body can spread to the brain. Selected patients may benefit from focused radiation such as stereotactic radiosurgery.
Recurrent Brain Tumours
When a brain tumour returns, treatment depends on the previous therapy, location of recurrence, overall health and available treatment options.
How is a brain tumour diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of an appropriate brain tumour treatment plan. The evaluation may involve several specialists and investigations.
- Clinical and neurological assessment
- MRI or other appropriate brain imaging
- Biopsy or surgical pathology where indicated
- Histopathological diagnosis
- Molecular or genetic testing where clinically appropriate
- Assessment of tumour grade and extent
- Review of previous treatment
- Multidisciplinary treatment discussion
Radiation therapy for brain tumours
Radiation therapy may be used in different ways depending on the diagnosis, treatment objective and clinical circumstances.
External Beam Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation uses high-energy radiation delivered from a treatment machine to a carefully defined target. It may be used after surgery, with systemic treatment or as the primary treatment for selected tumours.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)
SRS delivers highly focused radiation to a defined target. Despite its name, it is a non-surgical radiation treatment. It may be considered for selected small brain tumours or brain metastases.
Fractionated Stereotactic Radiation
In selected situations, stereotactic radiation may be delivered over multiple treatment sessions rather than as a single treatment.
Whole Brain Radiation Therapy
Whole brain radiation treats a broader area of the brain and may be considered in selected clinical situations, particularly when there are multiple brain metastases or other specific treatment indications.
Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
IGRT uses imaging during the treatment process to improve treatment accuracy and verify patient positioning.
IMRT / VMAT
Advanced planning and delivery techniques such as IMRT and VMAT can help shape radiation dose around the target while limiting radiation exposure to nearby normal structures.
What is stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)?
Stereotactic radiosurgery is a highly precise form of radiation treatment that delivers radiation to a defined target while attempting to limit unnecessary exposure to surrounding normal tissue.
SRS is not appropriate for every brain tumour. Its suitability depends on factors such as tumour size, number, location, previous treatment and the patient’s overall clinical condition.
Dr. Shamsundar has advanced fellowship training in stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy.
Discuss SRS With Dr. ShamsundarIs radiation therapy needed after brain tumour surgery?
Not every patient needs radiation therapy after surgery. The need for postoperative radiation depends on factors such as the tumour type, grade, molecular characteristics, extent of surgical removal, recurrence risk and the overall treatment plan.
For some high-grade brain tumours, postoperative radiation may form an important part of combined treatment. In other tumours, observation or another treatment strategy may be appropriate.
How is brain radiation therapy planned?
Radiation treatment is planned individually. The exact pathway varies according to the diagnosis and treatment objective.
Consultation
Review of symptoms, medical history, pathology, scans and previous treatment.
Imaging & Assessment
Relevant imaging and clinical information are reviewed to define the treatment target.
Treatment Planning
Radiation dose, technique and treatment schedule are individualised.
Radiation Delivery
Treatment is delivered using the selected radiation technique and image guidance where appropriate.
What are the possible side effects of brain radiation therapy?
Side effects vary depending on the area treated, radiation dose, treatment technique and individual patient factors.
Fatigue
Tiredness may occur during or after a course of radiation treatment and can vary between patients.
Hair Loss
Hair loss can occur in the area receiving radiation and may be temporary or longer-lasting depending on treatment factors.
Headache or Nausea
Some patients may experience headache or nausea. Your oncology team can advise on appropriate supportive treatment.
Brain Swelling
Radiation can occasionally contribute to swelling around the treatment area. Your medical team monitors for relevant symptoms.
Neurological Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the tumour and the area being treated.
Longer-Term Effects
Potential longer-term effects depend on treatment dose, location, technique and individual patient factors.
Your radiation oncologist should explain the expected benefits, potential risks and likely side effects before treatment begins. During treatment, symptoms are monitored and supportive care is provided when needed.
When should you consider a second opinion for a brain tumour?
A second opinion can help when a diagnosis is complex, several treatment options are available or you would like another specialist’s perspective before starting treatment.
- You have recently been diagnosed with a brain tumour
- Surgery has been recommended and you want to understand whether radiation may also have a role
- Radiation therapy has been suggested and you want to understand the treatment options
- The tumour has returned after previous treatment
- You have brain metastases and want to understand local treatment options
- You would like an independent review of your treatment plan
Meet Dr. S. D. Shamsundar
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar, MBBS, MD, FAROI
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar is a Radiation Oncologist with more than a decade of experience in radiation oncology and expertise in modern precision radiation techniques.
His clinical expertise includes IMRT, IGRT, VMAT, SRS, SBRT, precision radiation planning and multidisciplinary cancer care.
He has also completed advanced fellowship training in stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy.
View Dr. Shamsundar’s full profile →Why patients seek specialist radiation oncology care
Precision Treatment Planning
Radiation plans are designed around the tumour and important nearby normal structures.
Brain Tumour Expertise
Specialised radiation oncology assessment for selected primary brain tumours and brain metastases.
Multidisciplinary Care
Brain tumour treatment may involve neurosurgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology and pathology.
Evidence-Based Decisions
Treatment recommendations should be based on the diagnosis, available clinical evidence and individual patient factors.
Clear Treatment Discussions
Patients can understand the purpose of radiation, expected benefits, possible risks and treatment alternatives.
Patient-Centred Care
Treatment planning considers the patient’s clinical needs, goals and quality of life.
Brain tumour care may require more than radiation therapy
Depending on the diagnosis, patients may require surgery, systemic treatment, radiation therapy, supportive care or combinations of these approaches.
Multidisciplinary cancer care brings together specialists from different oncology disciplines to evaluate the diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment strategy.
If you would like to understand how surgical oncology, medical oncology and radiation oncology can work together, explore the multidisciplinary cancer care services at Precision Oncology Clinic, Bangalore .
Explore Multidisciplinary Cancer Care →Frequently Asked Questions About Brain Tumour Treatment
Clear answers to common questions about brain tumour treatment, radiation therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery.
What is the treatment for brain cancer?
Can brain tumours be treated with radiation therapy?
Is radiation needed after brain tumour surgery?
What is stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)?
Is SRS the same as brain surgery?
Can radiation treat brain metastases?
What is the difference between SRS and whole brain radiation?
What are the side effects of brain radiation therapy?
How long does brain radiation treatment take?
Can a brain tumour come back after treatment?
When should I seek a second opinion for a brain tumour?
How can I consult Dr. S. D. Shamsundar in Bangalore?
Have You Been Diagnosed With a Brain Tumour?
Bring your MRI or CT scans, pathology reports and previous treatment records. A radiation oncology consultation can help you understand whether radiation therapy may have a role in your treatment plan.
Medical Information Sources
This page is intended for general patient education and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Treatment decisions should be made after evaluation by the appropriate oncology team.
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) – Adult Central Nervous System Tumours
- American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) – Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases
- Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) – Neuro-oncology clinical information
Brain Cancer & Brain Tumour Treatment in Bangalore
Brain tumour treatment requires careful diagnosis, accurate imaging, multidisciplinary decision-making and a treatment plan tailored to the tumour and the individual patient. Dr. S. D. Shamsundar provides personalised radiation oncology care using modern precision radiation techniques for selected brain tumours and brain metastases.
Precision Radiation for Selected Brain Tumours
Modern techniques such as stereotactic radiosurgery, image-guided radiation therapy and advanced treatment planning can help deliver radiation accurately while limiting exposure to surrounding normal tissue when clinically appropriate.
What is the treatment for a brain tumour?
Treatment depends on the type, grade, size and location of the tumour, its molecular characteristics, whether it is a primary brain tumour or has spread from another cancer, previous treatment and the patient’s overall health. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, systemic treatment, active surveillance, supportive care or a combination of approaches.
Brain tumour treatment is highly individualised
A diagnosis of a brain tumour can be overwhelming. However, there is no single treatment that is appropriate for every patient. The treatment strategy depends on the exact diagnosis and several clinical factors.
These may include the tumour’s type, grade, size, location, molecular characteristics, growth pattern, previous treatment and the patient’s age and overall health.
Radiation therapy can have an important role in the management of selected brain tumours. It may be used after surgery, as part of combined treatment, as a primary treatment for selected tumours, or to control symptoms caused by cancer involving the brain.
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar evaluates each patient’s clinical history, imaging and pathology before determining whether radiation therapy has a role in the treatment plan.
What types of brain tumours may require treatment?
Brain tumours include many different diseases. Treatment is determined by the specific diagnosis rather than by the word “brain tumour” alone.
Gliomas
Gliomas arise from cells within the central nervous system. Treatment depends on the tumour type, grade, molecular characteristics and clinical situation.
Glioblastoma
Glioblastoma is an aggressive high-grade brain tumour that generally requires coordinated multidisciplinary treatment, often involving surgery, radiation and systemic therapy.
Meningioma
Many meningiomas are slow-growing. Depending on size, location, growth and symptoms, observation, surgery or radiation-based treatment may be considered.
Other Primary Brain Tumours
Other primary central nervous system tumours require diagnosis-specific treatment based on pathology, imaging and other clinical characteristics.
Brain Metastases
Cancer from another part of the body can spread to the brain. Selected patients may benefit from focused radiation such as stereotactic radiosurgery.
Recurrent Brain Tumours
When a brain tumour returns, treatment depends on the previous therapy, location of recurrence, overall health and available treatment options.
How is a brain tumour diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of an appropriate brain tumour treatment plan. The evaluation may involve several specialists and investigations.
- Clinical and neurological assessment
- MRI or other appropriate brain imaging
- Biopsy or surgical pathology where indicated
- Histopathological diagnosis
- Molecular or genetic testing where clinically appropriate
- Assessment of tumour grade and extent
- Review of previous treatment
- Multidisciplinary treatment discussion
Radiation therapy for brain tumours
Radiation therapy may be used in different ways depending on the diagnosis, treatment objective and clinical circumstances.
External Beam Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation uses high-energy radiation delivered from a treatment machine to a carefully defined target. It may be used after surgery, with systemic treatment or as the primary treatment for selected tumours.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)
SRS delivers highly focused radiation to a defined target. Despite its name, it is a non-surgical radiation treatment. It may be considered for selected small brain tumours or brain metastases.
Fractionated Stereotactic Radiation
In selected situations, stereotactic radiation may be delivered over multiple treatment sessions rather than as a single treatment.
Whole Brain Radiation Therapy
Whole brain radiation treats a broader area of the brain and may be considered in selected clinical situations, particularly when there are multiple brain metastases or other specific treatment indications.
Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
IGRT uses imaging during the treatment process to improve treatment accuracy and verify patient positioning.
IMRT / VMAT
Advanced planning and delivery techniques such as IMRT and VMAT can help shape radiation dose around the target while limiting radiation exposure to nearby normal structures.
What is stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)?
Stereotactic radiosurgery is a highly precise form of radiation treatment that delivers radiation to a defined target while attempting to limit unnecessary exposure to surrounding normal tissue.
SRS is not appropriate for every brain tumour. Its suitability depends on factors such as tumour size, number, location, previous treatment and the patient’s overall clinical condition.
Dr. Shamsundar has advanced fellowship training in stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy.
Discuss SRS With Dr. ShamsundarIs radiation therapy needed after brain tumour surgery?
Not every patient needs radiation therapy after surgery. The need for postoperative radiation depends on factors such as the tumour type, grade, molecular characteristics, extent of surgical removal, recurrence risk and the overall treatment plan.
For some high-grade brain tumours, postoperative radiation may form an important part of combined treatment. In other tumours, observation or another treatment strategy may be appropriate.
How is brain radiation therapy planned?
Radiation treatment is planned individually. The exact pathway varies according to the diagnosis and treatment objective.
Consultation
Review of symptoms, medical history, pathology, scans and previous treatment.
Imaging & Assessment
Relevant imaging and clinical information are reviewed to define the treatment target.
Treatment Planning
Radiation dose, technique and treatment schedule are individualised.
Radiation Delivery
Treatment is delivered using the selected radiation technique and image guidance where appropriate.
What are the possible side effects of brain radiation therapy?
Side effects vary depending on the area treated, radiation dose, treatment technique and individual patient factors.
Fatigue
Tiredness may occur during or after a course of radiation treatment and can vary between patients.
Hair Loss
Hair loss can occur in the area receiving radiation and may be temporary or longer-lasting depending on treatment factors.
Headache or Nausea
Some patients may experience headache or nausea. Your oncology team can advise on appropriate supportive treatment.
Brain Swelling
Radiation can occasionally contribute to swelling around the treatment area. Your medical team monitors for relevant symptoms.
Neurological Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the tumour and the area being treated.
Longer-Term Effects
Potential longer-term effects depend on treatment dose, location, technique and individual patient factors.
Your radiation oncologist should explain the expected benefits, potential risks and likely side effects before treatment begins. During treatment, symptoms are monitored and supportive care is provided when needed.
When should you consider a second opinion for a brain tumour?
A second opinion can help when a diagnosis is complex, several treatment options are available or you would like another specialist’s perspective before starting treatment.
- You have recently been diagnosed with a brain tumour
- Surgery has been recommended and you want to understand whether radiation may also have a role
- Radiation therapy has been suggested and you want to understand the treatment options
- The tumour has returned after previous treatment
- You have brain metastases and want to understand local treatment options
- You would like an independent review of your treatment plan
Meet Dr. S. D. Shamsundar
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar, MBBS, MD, FAROI
Dr. S. D. Shamsundar is a Radiation Oncologist with more than a decade of experience in radiation oncology and expertise in modern precision radiation techniques.
His clinical expertise includes IMRT, IGRT, VMAT, SRS, SBRT, precision radiation planning and multidisciplinary cancer care.
He has also completed advanced fellowship training in stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy.
View Dr. Shamsundar’s full profile →Why patients seek specialist radiation oncology care
Precision Treatment Planning
Radiation plans are designed around the tumour and important nearby normal structures.
Brain Tumour Expertise
Specialised radiation oncology assessment for selected primary brain tumours and brain metastases.
Multidisciplinary Care
Brain tumour treatment may involve neurosurgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology and pathology.
Evidence-Based Decisions
Treatment recommendations should be based on the diagnosis, available clinical evidence and individual patient factors.
Clear Treatment Discussions
Patients can understand the purpose of radiation, expected benefits, possible risks and treatment alternatives.
Patient-Centred Care
Treatment planning considers the patient’s clinical needs, goals and quality of life.
Brain tumour care may require more than radiation therapy
Depending on the diagnosis, patients may require surgery, systemic treatment, radiation therapy, supportive care or combinations of these approaches.
Multidisciplinary cancer care brings together specialists from different oncology disciplines to evaluate the diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment strategy.
If you would like to understand how surgical oncology, medical oncology and radiation oncology can work together, explore the multidisciplinary cancer care services at Precision Oncology Clinic, Bangalore .
Explore Multidisciplinary Cancer Care →Frequently Asked Questions About Brain Tumour Treatment
Clear answers to common questions about brain tumour treatment, radiation therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery.
What is the treatment for brain cancer?
Can brain tumours be treated with radiation therapy?
Is radiation needed after brain tumour surgery?
What is stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)?
Is SRS the same as brain surgery?
Can radiation treat brain metastases?
What is the difference between SRS and whole brain radiation?
What are the side effects of brain radiation therapy?
How long does brain radiation treatment take?
Can a brain tumour come back after treatment?
When should I seek a second opinion for a brain tumour?
How can I consult Dr. S. D. Shamsundar in Bangalore?
Have You Been Diagnosed With a Brain Tumour?
Bring your MRI or CT scans, pathology reports and previous treatment records. A radiation oncology consultation can help you understand whether radiation therapy may have a role in your treatment plan.
Medical Information Sources
This page is intended for general patient education and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Treatment decisions should be made after evaluation by the appropriate oncology team.
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) – Adult Central Nervous System Tumours
- American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) – Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases
- Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) – Neuro-oncology clinical information