Abstract
Brain tumors are a diverse group of neoplasms that vary widely in treatment and prognosis.
Imaging serves as the cornerstone of diagnosis, monitoring response to treatment and
identifying progression of disease in neuro-oncologic care. This review outlines current
and emerging imaging modalities with a focus on clinical application in glioma, meningioma,
and brain metastasis. We cover standard imaging modalities, advanced magnetic resonance
techniques such as perfusion and spectroscopic imaging, and nuclear imaging with positron
emission tomography (PET), including amino acid PET. We summarize the standardized
Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) criteria, and explore innovations in
radiomics, artificial intelligence, and targeted imaging biomarkers. Finally, we address
challenges related to equitable access to advanced imaging. This review provides a
practical, clinically focused guide to support neurologists in the imaging-based care
of patients with primary or metastatic brain tumors.
Keywords
neuro-oncology - brain tumor - advanced MRI - amino acid PET - radiomics
