
Brain Tumor Center
The UCSF Brain Tumor Center is one of the largest and most comprehensive programs in the nation for the treatment of brain and spinal tumors. We treat all grades of tumors, whether newly diagnosed or recurring after previous treatment. We also offer specialized care for patients with CNS metastases, tumors that have spread to the central nervous system. Our team brings together neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists and radiologists, as well as other health professionals with expertise in these conditions.
Our mission is to provide our patients with the best possible outcomes and quality of life, using the latest treatments and technology. These include advanced intra-operative imaging and brain mapping techniques to protect areas of the brain used for language, motor skills and sensory function during surgery, as well as radiosurgery with Gamma Knife and CyberKnife and access to clinical trials of promising new therapies.
Our comprehensive approach includes a caregiver program, dedicated to helping our patients' caregivers and family members get the resources and support they need.
We are part of the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences.
Our locations
Support services
Our team
Clinical trials
Serial MR Imaging and MR Spectroscopic Imaging for the Characterization of Lower Grade Glioma
Safety evaluation for endpoint will include monitoring for the occurrence of treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs). Reported toxicities will be graded using the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Common Terminology (Toxicity) Crite...
Recruiting
PVSRIPO and Pembrolizumab in Patients With Recurrent Glioblastoma
Objective response rate (comprised of patients meeting an objective radiographic response or ORR): Patients achieving a CR or PR. DOR: Time from first ORR observed (once confirmed) until PD first observed (once confirmed) or deat...
Recruiting
Trial of Newly Diagnosed High Grade Glioma Treated With Concurrent Radiation Therapy, Temozolom...
Assessment of overall survival. With standard treatment, the median survival of Grade IV patients is expected to be 14.6 months, and the median survival of Grade III is approximately 36 months. Given that we anticipate that approx...
Recruiting
Rankings & achievements
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Best hospital in Northern California
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Best in Northern California in cancer care
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in the U.S. for number of brain tumor patients treated
Accreditations & memberships
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National Cancer Institute
The National Cancer Institute has designated UCSF a comprehensive cancer center, its highest ranking. This designation is awarded to centers that demonstrate scientific excellence and the ability to conduct cancer research across many disciplines.
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Commission on Cancer
UCSF's cancer programs have been accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) since 1933. The CoC is a consortium of groups dedicated to improving cancer patients' survival and quality of life via research, education and better medical care.
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National Comprehensive Cancer Network
UCSF is a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the world’s top cancer centers. The network brings together leaders in treatment and research to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care.
Plan your visit
What to Bring
- MRI scans taken no more than three to four weeks prior
- Photo I.D.
- Health insurance card
- Insurance authorization, if required
- Doctor's referral, if required
- List of questions you may have
- Device or paper for taking notes

International Services
If you live in another country and are coming to UCSF for medical
treatment, our patient liaisons can help coordinate all aspects of your visit.

Interpreters
UCSF offers language services at no charge for patients with limited
English, as well as for patients who are deaf or have trouble hearing.

Hospital Stays
Checking into the hospital? Find helpful information by clicking on the relevant “Your Hospital Stay” booklet: Mission Bay, Parnassus or Mount
Zion.

Your Doctor Visit
See our top 10 tips for making your UCSF doctor’s appointment as stress-free and productive as possible.
Learn moreRelated clinics
Our research initiatives
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UCSF Brain Tumor Center Clinical Trials
The UCSF Brain Tumor Center is home to many laboratories dedicated to improving the understanding and treatment of brain cancer. The labs explore aspects of brain tumor risk, biology, diagnosis and treatment.
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UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center Research
UCSF is home to a range of research initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients everywhere. This includes research on topics such as immunotherapy, BRCA mutations and molecular diagnostic testing.