What Are Metastatic Brain Tumors?
Metastatic brain tumors are cancerous tumors that originate in another part of the body and spread to the brain. They are the most common type of brain tumor in adults. Cancer cells typically travel to the brain through the bloodstream, forming secondary tumors that can disrupt normal brain function and increase pressure within the skull.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of metastatic brain tumors vary depending on the number, size, and location of the tumors and may include:
- Persistent or worsening headaches• Seizures
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Changes in vision, speech, or hearing
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Cognitive changes, confusion, or personality changes
What Causes Metastatic Brain Tumors?
Metastatic brain tumors develop when cancer spreads from another organ to the brain.
Common primary cancer sources include:
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Melanoma
- Kidney cancer
- Colorectal cancer
Other contributing factors may include advanced or aggressive cancer biology and
circulation of cancer cells through the bloodstream.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on the primary cancer type, number and location of brain metastases, overall health, and symptom severity. Options may include monitoring, medications such as steroids to reduce swelling, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies coordinated with oncology specialists. When tumors cause neurological deficits, seizures, significant brain compression, or increased intracranial pressure, surgical intervention may be necessary—consult Premier NeuroSpine for the condition and surgical planning.