Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Program

Our Neuro-Oncology program  treats patients with a wide variety of both benign and malignant tumors that arise in the brain and spinal cord.  These include astrocytomas, medulloblastomas, ependymomas, central nervous system germ cell tumors, craniopharyngiomas and many others. In conjunction with experts in Neuro-radiology, Neurosurgery and Radiation Oncology, we provide individualized service to children and adolescents affected by brain tumors. The goal of our program is to provide the best comprehensive,  multidisciplinary care to this special population of  pediatric patients.

Our team also provides care to other complex diseases such as neurofibromatosis. Neurofibromatosis is not a single medical disorder but refers to three different conditions involving the development of tumors that may affect the brain, spinal cord, and the nerves that send signals between the brain and spinal cord and all other parts of the body. Most tumors are non-cancerous (benign), although some may become cancerous (malignant). Neurofibromatosis occurs in both sexes and in all races and ethnic groups.

Patients treated by our team benefit from exclusively board-certified providers who combine the resources of the University Health System with the academic knowledge of the UT Health San Antonio.  Our program is an active participant in clinical research offering the most current treatment options to patients through the Children’s Oncology Group (COG).  In addition to our pediatric oncology clinical providers, the program includes radiation oncology, child life, psychology, and social work/case management.

Meet our Neuro-Oncology Team

Pediatric Oncologist
Shafqat Shah, MD

Clinical Psychologists
Leanne Embry, PhD
Krystal Robinson, PsyD

Social Worker
Kim Wilk, LMSW

Pediatric Neurosurgeon
Izabela Tarasiewicz, MD