Cedars Sinai
Learn more about NeuroOncology & Brain Metastases Clinic

State-of-the-art Brain Cancers & NeuroOncology at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute

The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute is proud to have developed our world class Neuro-Oncology Center that targets the eradication of Brain Malignancies & Metastases.

As we have increased the prognosis of multiple cancers the incidence of brain metastases has increased dramatically. Brain metastases occur when cancer cells spread from their original site to the brain. Any cancer can spread to the brain, but the types most likely to cause brain metastases are lung, breast, colon, kidney and melanoma. Composed of an expert multi-specialty team consisting of medical oncologists, neuro-radiologists, neurooncologists, and neurosurgeons this army formulates the plan of attack.

The Center’s physicians and clinical staff are dedicated to providing cutting-edge comprehensive treatment for cancers affecting the central nervous system (brain and spine).

One of the center's key innovations is the use of sequencing to evaluate the tumor and identify appropriate targeted agents. Additionally, our physicians have been at the forefront of clinical trials that have helped establish immunotherapy as a cornerstone of treatment for brain metastases. Our patients have access to the latest advancements in treatments for brain cancer, spinal cord tumors, and other forms of cancer that have spread to the nervous system.

Patients at The Neuro-Oncology Center have access to the latest developments and advancements in treatment options for: brain cancer, spinal cord tumors and other cancers which have metastasized from elsewhere to the nervous system. Treatment plans are customized to the patient based on their own clinical picture in order to offer guidance through this diagnosis complemented with the expertise of neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, neurologists, radiation oncologists and neuropathologists. Initial review consists of a sequencing of the tumor to evaluate appropriate targeted agents. Physicians at our center have contributed to the revolutionization through first in class clinical trials which have led the way in establishing immunotherapy and targeted therapy as first line options and alternatives to toxic chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Our Interventional Radiology and Onco-Imaging departments complement this endeavor through state-of-the-art imaging systems including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and PET scanning which accurately identify tumors and create precise treatment plans. Patients benefit through this multidisciplinary approach as scanning done can be reviewed and discussed in real time with the expert team, ensuring no delays. Through our radiology program led by Dr. Pareen Mehta, a leader in the field of NeuroRadiology, we can ensure procedures can be completed in same day. Systemic therapy can be augmented through the utilization of intrathecal treatment instillation and lumbar punctures to improve disease response. Our program partners with Radiation Oncologists to complete planning with precise plans for radiation to avoid toxicity.

Or use our secure online appointment request form to schedule an appointment at The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute in West Los Angeles and Santa Monica, California.

Brain Cancer

Though rare, brain cancer is the result of abnormal cell growth within the brain that can become a mass or tumor. These tumors may begin in the brain and like other cancers have the potential to metastasize and spread to other parts of the body. Early symptoms may not be present and generally diagnosis is confirmed with tests such as a CT, MRI or EEG. It is important to note that there are many types of brain tumors and patient outcomes are directly related to the location of the tumor, how the tumor has developed, how early the cancer was identified and if it has spread. Though brain cancer can be cured in some cases the effects of the tumor may be permanent. Treatment options include: surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, biological therapies or a combination of these options.

Spinal Cord Tumors

The spinal cord is an organ within your central nervous system that connects to your brain and runs down the entirety of your back. The brain depends on your spinal cord in order to transmit sensory information around your body. Spinal cord tumors are a type of cancer that can develop with the central nervous system, these are caused when cells that make up the spinal cord grow abnormally and become tumors. This can happen locally within the spinal cord or as a result of another cancer within the body having spread to the spinal cord. As with other forms of cancer early detection and diagnosis is paramount to achieving the best possible outcome. Treatment options include: radiation, surgery, medications or a combination of options.