Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Foundations in Neuro-Oncology A Guide for Clinical Practice 2026

Date & Location Thursday, June 11, 2026, 8:30 AM – 4:10 PM, Online
This one-day virtual course provides a comprehensive overview of cancers of the central nervous system (CNS), highlighting current management strategies, emerging therapies, and neuro-oncologic emergencies. Neuro-oncology is a highly specialized field that demands advanced clinical knowledge and multidisciplinary coordination to optimize patient outcomes. This course offers a strong foundation in the principles and evolving practices of neuro-oncologic care.
Topics include:

Foundational neuroanatomy
Management of primary and metastatic brain tumors
Leptomeningeal disease and central nervous system lymphoma
Rapid assessment and intervention for neuro-oncologic emergencies
Best practices in supportive care and communication with patients and caregivers

Participants will also gain insight into recent therapeutic advances shaping the care of this complex patient population.
This course is designed to meet the educational needs of physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical pharmacy specialists, registered nurses, and other healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with central nervous system cancers.
Objectives

Differentiate treatment of primary brain tumors, secondary brain tumors and central nervous system lymphoma.
Explore the pearls of basic and advanced neuro-radiology techniques.
Gain confidence in the recognition and treatment of neuro-oncologic emergencies.
Employ evidence-based practice regarding supportive care for the neuro-oncologic patient and caregiver.

+ Topics:
Thursday, June 11, 2026

From Imaging to Intervention: Diagnosis and Treatment of Gliomas
8:35AM – 8:45AM
Kenny Kwok Hei Yu, MBBS

Clinical Management of Meningiomas: WHO Classification and Treatment Selection
8:45AM – 9:10AM
Marissa Barbaro, MD

CNS Lymphoma Explained: Diagnostic Pathways and Chemotherapy Strategies
9:10AM – 9:35AM
Jennifer Fisher, MS

Navigating Primary CNS Tumors: From Diagnosis to Treatment Q&A and Discussion
9:35AM – 10:00AM

CNS Metastatic Disease: Leptomeningeal Involvement, Brain Metastases, and CSF Findings
10:00AM – 10:25AM
Jessica Wilcox, MD

Proton-vs-Photon: Modern Radiation Techniques
10:25AM – 10:50AM
Silvia Quebec, PA-C, MS

Crossing the Blood Brain Barrier Q&A and Discussion
10:50AM – 11:15AM

Reading the Brain: A Neuroradiologic Approach
11:20AM – 11:45AM
Sofia Haque, MD

When the Cord Is at Risk: Imaging of Spinal Tumors and Cord Compression
11:45AM – 12:10PM
Onur Yildirim, MD

ing: What, Where, and When
12:10PM – 12:35PM
Javin Schefflein, MD

Imaging the Central Nervous System: A Practical Guide to Neuroradiology Q&A and Discussion
12:35PM – 1:00PM

When the Pressure Rises: Understanding and Managing Increased ICP
1:05PM – 1:30PM
Lauren Socia, PA-C

Spinal Cord Compression: Recognizing Causes and Emergency Management
1:30PM – 1:55PM
Meghan Hendershot, FNP-BC

When the Immune System Attacks the Nervous System: Neurotoxicity in Immunotherapy
1:55PM – 2:20PM
Bianca D. Santomasso, MD

Save the Brain! Timely Recognition and Management of Seizures
2:20PM – 2:45PM
George Lai, MD

When Every Minute Counts: Neuro-Oncologic Emergencies Q&A and Discussion
2:45PM – 3:10PM

Life Interrupted: Psychosocial Concerns of Young Adults with Cancer
3:10PM – 3:35PM
Jessica Schulte, MD, PhD

Managing Complex Symptoms with Compassion
3:35PM – 4:00PM
Shila Pandey, DNP

Difficult Conversations Made Manageable: Guidance for Healthcare Professionals
4:00PM – 4:25PM
Eileen Harrigan, MD