Brian S. Na, MD, PhD

Dr. Brian S. Na is a neuro-oncologist who cares for both children and adults with brain or spinal cord tumors. He has a particular focus on patients with neurofibromatosis, a condition causing noncancerous tumors to develop in the nervous system, and those with schwannomatosis, a nervous system disorder characterized by painful and tingling noncancerous tumors. He is dedicated to providing comprehensive, lifelong care tailored to the unique needs of these patients. He also treats pediatric neuro-oncology patients who are part of an adolescent and young adult survivorship program.

Na's research career began in the laboratory with establishing and validating robust preclinical models – essential tools for assessing the potential benefits of treatments in humans. Leveraging his expertise in basic and translational research, he now collaborates with other scientists and health care providers to develop clinical trials – studies that use human volunteers to evaluate promising treatments – aimed at advancing care for neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis as well as brain and spinal cord tumors in both children and adults.

Na earned his medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine. He completed a residency in pediatrics at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children's, followed by a fellowship in pediatric hematology-oncology at the University of California, Los Angeles, training at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital. Initially focused on pediatric neuro-oncology, he identified gaps in treatment for patients with brain and spinal cord tumors outside traditional age groups, which inspired him to pursue further training. At UCLA, he completed a fellowship in adult neuro-oncology and earned a doctorate in molecular and medical pharmacology through its Specialty Training and Advanced Research (STAR) Program, focusing on neurofibromatosis type 1 and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (a fast-growing cancer of the central nervous system that primarily affects children under 3).