The clinical basis for the long established contraindication of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the presence of brain tumor is reviewed, as is the recent literature that has questioned the absolute nature of that contraindication. A need for a specific estimate of risk is noted. Retrospective case reports are added to the 28 cases reported in the literature. The clinical case report data are then pooled and evaluated by outcome. Results indicate a 74% overall morbidity, including a 28% 1-mo. mortality rate for patients with brain tumors who receive ECT. Of the [psychiatric] patients, 21% had a positive behavioral response to ECT without complication.