Overview
Brain metastases happen when cancer cells spread from their original site to the brain. Any cancer can spread to the brain. But the most common types that spread are lung, breast, colon, kidney and melanoma.
Brain metastases may form one or more tumors in the brain. As they grow, they put pressure on surrounding brain tissue. This can cause symptoms such as headache, personality changes, confusion, seizures, vision changes, trouble speaking, numbness, weakness or loss of balance.
Treatment for people whose cancer has spread to the brain may include surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy or chemotherapy. Other treatments might be used to decrease pain and symptoms caused by the cancer.
Symptoms
Symptoms caused by brain metastases can vary. They depend on location, size and how fast they're growing.
Symptoms of brain metastases include:
- Headache, sometimes with vomiting or nausea.
- Mental changes, such as increasing memory problems.
- Seizures.
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body.
- Vision changes.
- Difficulty speaking or understanding language.
- Loss of balance.
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with your healthcare professional if you have persistent signs and symptoms that concern you. If you've been treated for cancer in the past, tell your doctor about your medical history.
Causes
Brain metastases occur when cancer cells break away from their original location. The cells may travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and spread to the brain.
Cancer that spreads from its original location is known by the name of the primary cancer. For example, cancer that has spread from the breast to the brain is called metastatic breast cancer, not brain cancer.
Risk factors
Any type of cancer can spread to the brain. Some of the types that are more likely to spread include:
- Lung cancer.
- Breast cancer.
- Colon cancer.
- Kidney cancer.
- Melanoma.