Barbara-Ann Millar MB ChB, FRCR, Clinical Fellow, Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital/University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

Normand Laperriere MD, FRCPC, Associate Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital/University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON

Radiation therapy is commonly used in the management of intracranial malignancies. Although the effects on the developing brain have been extensively documented, the impact of this treatment modality on the older brain requires further investigation. The effect of radiation treatment, the intracranial lesion, and associated comorbidities and medications all influence the individual’s overall outcome. This review looks at the pathophysiology of radiation injury within the brain and its impact on cerebral irradiation in older patients.

Key words: radiotherapy, older brain, tumour, neurocognitive effects.