ABSTRACT
The central nervous system (CNS) is host to a remarkable variety of primary tumours that demonstrate an equal diversity of clinical behaviour, response to treatment and prognosis. Whilst most malignant tumours still carry a bleak prognosis, worthwhile extension of life can be achieved in many patients. For those with more responsive tumours, adequate management can provide prolonged survival or cure. An accurate diagnosis is required in almost all cases and this is now facilitated by advances in neuro-imaging, neurosurgical technique and neuropathology. Molecular analysis is already having an impact on the management of some brain tumours. The practising neuro-oncologist therefore needs a detailed knowledge of a modern pathological classification system and how this relates to tumour management.
