Medulloblastoma in adults: a review of 47 patients treated between 1952 and 1981.

The results of treatment of 47 adults with medulloblastoma are reviewed. For those treated with ortho-voltage radiotherapy between 1952 and 1963 the actuarial 5- and 10-year survival rates were 38% and 23%, respectively. Of those treated with megavoltage radiotherapy between 1964 and 1981, the corresponding 5- and 10-year survival rates were 59% and 53%, respectively. Of patients treated with megavoltage radiotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy between 1971 and 1981, 76% were alive at 5 years and also at 10 years. Treatment factors associated with an increased survival were complete or subtotal resection of the primary tumor, as opposed to partial removal, a radiation dose to the posterior fossa of 55 Gy or more and the administration of adjuvant chemotherapy. Neither the quality of life, nor the fertility of the surviving patients, have been impaired by the treatment. Six patients (13%) developed metastatic disease outside the central nervous system.