What is a Tumor Board?
A tumor board is a regular meeting (monthly, bimonthly, or, in some cases, weekly) when specialists from the treatment team come together to discuss patients and their brain tumors. It is often used to talk about complicated cases, weigh treatment possibilities, or suggest referrals to other doctors or clinical trials. A tumor board may include neurosurgeons, pathologists, radiation oncologists, neuro-oncologists, nursing staff, and social workers, though this varies from one center to another. Here are definitions for some of the more common specialists that make up a brain tumor treatment team: Neuropsychologist: A licensed psychologist who has specialized in studying how the brain functions and the impact that damage to the brain has on one’s abilities. (Please note that although neuropsychologists are frequently not consulted until after treatment, it may be preferable to do so from the beginning so that a more accurate baseline can be established before treatment.) Neuro-Oncologis
