Brain Metasases

Metastases occur when malignant cancer cells ‘break away’ from their original location, the primary tumor, and spread- usually via the bloodstream – to a different location in the body. Most tumors can cause brain metastases, but they most commonly arise from lung tumors, breast tumors, and melanoma (skin cancer).

Symptoms

Brain metastases can be solitary, but frequently, multiple brain metastases are found at time of diagnosis. Contrary to other brain tumors, they are more commonly found in the cerebellum. Symptoms may vary depending on the location of the metastases in the brain, but may include:

  • Headache
  • Personality changes
  • Weakness in arms or legs
  • Problems with speech
  • Seizures

Treatment

Brain metastases treatment is a multimodality treatment, in other words, different kinds of treatments are usually needed and can include neurosurgery and radiation therapy (stereotactic radiation). The goal of neurosurgery can include confirmation of the diagnosis and symptoms relief.

Within UNCH Haaglanden Medical Center is specialised in diagnosing and treating patients with brain metastases. More information (in Dutch) can be found on NVvN's website or hersentumor.nl.

Ons advies