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Metastatic brain tumor    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Brain tumor - secondary; Tumor - brain - metastatic; Brain tumor - metastatic; Cancer - brain tumor (secondary)

Treatment

Treatment varies with the size and type of the tumor, primary site of the tumor, and the general health of the person. The goals of treatment may be relief of symptoms, improved functioning, or comfort.

Surgery is indicated for metastatic brain tumors when there is a single lesion. Some may be completely excised (removed). Tumors that are deep or that infiltrate brain tissue may be debulked (removal of much of the mass of the tumor to reduce its size). Surgery may reduce intracranial pressure and relieve symptoms in cases when the tumor cannot be removed. Radiation therapy may be advised for tumors that are sensitive to radiation.

Medications may include:

• Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone to reduce swelling of the brain
• Osmotic diuretics such as urea or mannitol to reduce brain swelling
• Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin to reduce seizures
• Analgesics to control pain
• Antacids or antihistamines to control stress ulcers

When multiple metastases (widespread cancer) is discovered, treatment may focus primarily on relief of pain and other symptoms.

Comfort measures, safety measures, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other interventions may improve the quality of life. Counseling, support groups, and similar measures may be needed to cope with the disorder. See cancer - support group in the special topics section. Legal advice may be helpful in forming advanced directives, such as power of attorney, in cases where continued physical or intellectual decline is likely.

Prognosis

In general, The probable outcome is fairly poor. Many people with metastatic brain tumors have widespread tumor metastasis. Death often occurs within 2 years.

Complications

• Brain herniation (fatal)
• Permanent, progressive, profound neurologic losses
• Loss of ability to interact
• Loss of ability to function or care for self

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if new, persistent headaches occur.

Go to the emergency room if there is a new onset of seizures, or sudden development of stupor, vision changes, or speech impairment.

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