Brain metastases Flashcards
1
Q
How common are brain metastases?
A
40% of patients with cancer
2
Q
What type of cancers are affected by brain metastases most?
A
commonly, lung, breast, colorectal, melanoma
3
Q
What are and symptoms and signs of brain metastases and how common are they?
A
- Headache (around 50% worse in morning, when coughing or bending)
- Focal neurological signs (30%)
- Ataxia (21%)
- Fits (18%)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Papilloedema
4
Q
What investigations may be used for brain metastases?
A
urgent CT/MRI depending on underlying diagnosis, disease stage and performance status
5
Q
What is possible management for brain metastases?
A
- Dexamethasone 16mg/24h to recue cerebral oedema
- Stereotactic radiotherapy
- Discuss with neurosurgery especially if large lesion or associated hydrocephalus
6
Q
What is the prognosis for brain metastases?
A
median survival: 1-2 months
7
Q
When is there a better prognosis of brain metastases?
A
better prognosis with single lesion, breast cancer
