Supportive management of the patient with malignant brain tumor.

Primary brain tumors constitute nearly 10% of nontraumatic neurological diseases. The incidence of metastatic tumors is increasing and will continue to increase as therapeutic improvements prolong survival. Sooner or later, most of these patients will have major neurological disabilities. The management of the most common of these disabilities, including the care of bedridden or comatose patients, is discussed, along with consideration of the role of the family in caring for the patient's physical and psychological needs.