Radio- and chemotherapy of malignant gliomas. Pathological changes in the normal nervous tissue.

The pathological effects of radio- and chemotherapy on the normal nervous tissue have been studied in 42 brains with malignant gliomas. The brains have been examined by means of the complete study technique. In seven cases the picture of delayed radionecrosis has been found. Apart from this, many histological features have been related to post-operative survival, radiation dose, interval between radiation and death, chemotherapy, steroids, size and activity of the tumour. Some alterations, such as peritumoural necroses, macrophage areas, vessel wall degenerations etc. result from radiotherapy. The relations and pathogenesis are discussed.