NICE publish new Quality Standard in brain tumours (primary) and brain metastases in adults to help improve quality of care provided to brain tumour patients

The new Quality Standard for brain tumours and metastases in adults published by NICE on the 7th of December is designed to help improve the quality of care provided to patients in England and Wales. This should allow all patients with brain tumours to access the best treatment and care.

The 5 points of focus are:

1. GPs have direct access to MRI for adults with suspected brain tumour.
2. Adults with brain tumours have a named healthcare professional who coordinates their health and social care support.
3. Adults with radiologically enhancing suspected high-grade gliomas that are suitable for resection of all enhancing tumour have 5‑aminolevulinic acid (5‑ALA)-guided resection.
4. Adults who finish treatment for brain tumours have an assessment and discussion about their risk of late effects of treatment at their first follow‑up appointment.
5. Adults with brain tumours have access to neurological rehabilitation in the community and as an outpatient or inpatient.

Section 3 will ensure adults with suspected high-grade glioma that is suitable for resection have surgery using 5-ALA (Gliolan^®) which ensures as much of the tumour as possible is removed.

medac Pharma managing director Tony Johnson comments, “This Quality Standard clearly supports patients with brain tumours and gives them a fighting chance against this terrible disease.”