Effect of radiation therapy on hemangioblastoma: a case report and review of the literature

A case of medullary hemangioblastoma treated with radiation and operation is presented. After radiation a 55% decrease in the volume of the vascular portion of the tumor was documented by angiograms. Also, there were planes of dissection between the tumor and the dorsal medulla that had not been appreciated at exploratory operation before radiation. Total resection of the tumor was accomplished using hypothermia and cardiac standstill. The literature detailing the effects of radiation on hemangioblastoma is reviewed. (Neurosurgery, 6: 82--86, 1980)