Thomas Nelson, MD

Dr. Thomas A. Nelson is a neuro-oncologist who cares for patients with tumors of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). He has a particular focus on primary brain tumors (cancer that starts in the brain rather than spreading there from elsewhere in the body). His priority is to help his patients feel and function better.

In his research, Nelson focuses on using technology, including artificial intelligence, to diagnose and treat brain tumors more effectively. With these methods, he evaluates new medications and devices that may improve outcomes.

Nelson earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas. He completed a residency in neurology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, followed by a fellowship in neuro-oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Massachusetts General Hospital. While at Mass General, he received the National Cancer Institute's Paul Calabresi Career Development Award for Clinical Oncology to support his neuro-oncology research.

Nelson feels fortunate to have lived in many regions of the United States as well as abroad. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, travel, exercise, and reading both fiction and nonfiction. He grew up in Kansas City and remains a loyal KC sports fan.