Abstract
Improved localisation of central nervous system (CNS) tumours resulting from newer diagnostic imaging techniques may allow the therapeutic irradiation of smaller volumes than currently practiced with the possibility of less normal tissue injury and/or the use of higher radiation doses. The influence of radiation dose and volume on the control rates for various types of CNS tumour and on the radiation tolerance of CNS tissue is imperfectly understood. Available data on these fundamental issues in the radiation treatment of CNS tumours is reviewed.