Brain metastases: treatment
Written and reviewed by Dr Ibrahim Imam, Consultant Neurologist. Last reviewed .
Brain metastases: treatment. This is usually indicated for single metastases. Fully referenced neurology checklist.
Surgery ± external beam radiation
- This is usually indicated for single metastases
- It may be done for 2-3 metastases if the systemic disease is well-controlled
Stereotactic radiosurgery
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Whole brain radiotherapy (WBR)
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Chemotherapy
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Dexamethasone
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Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)
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Good prognostic factors
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References
- Soffietti R, Cornu P, Delattre JY, et al. EFNS guidelines on diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases: report of an EFNS Task Force. Eur J Neurol 2006; 13:674-681.
- Pavel M, Grossman A, Arnold R, et al. ENETS consensus guidelines for the management of brain, cardiac and ovarian metastases from neuroendocrine tumours. Neuroendocrinology 2010; 91:326-332.
- Mikkelsen T, Paleologos NA, Robinson PD, et al. The role of prophylactic anticonvulsants in the management of brain metastases: a systematic review and evidence-based clinical practice guideline. J Neurooncol 2010; 96:97-102.
- Ryken TC, McDrrmott M, Robinson PD, et al. The role of steroids in the management of brain metastases: a systematic review and evidence-based clinical practice guideline. J Neurooncol 2010; 96:103-114.
