Brain metastases

What is Brain Metastasis?

Brain metastases are tumors that form in the brain from cancer cells originating in another organ (primary tumor). Malignant tumor cells enter the bloodstream, traveling from the primary tumor to the brain, where they begin to grow and develop.

Brain metastases are the most common type of brain tumors.

Thanks to significant advances in cancer treatment, many malignant tumors can now be completely cured or significantly slowed in terms of their spread within the affected organ and other organ systems. If cancer cells continue to exist in the body, over time, the tumor may not only reappear in the original organ (if it has not been completely removed) but also metastasize (spread) to the nervous system, brain, and sometimes even the skull.

Which Patients Are at Risk?

Certain types of cancer have a higher tendency to metastasize to the brain. For example, melanoma, breast, lung, kidney, and intestinal cancers frequently spread to the brain.

Metastatic brain tumors are more common in adults and occur equally in men and women. However, gender differences are observed in primary tumor locations (the organs where cancer initially develops). For instance, lung cancer is more common in men, whereas breast cancer predominantly affects women.

Brain Metastases: What Are the Symptoms?

• Headaches
• Nausea / vomiting
• Epilepsy (first-time seizure)
• Weakness / paralysis in limbs (often one-sided)
• Dizziness / coordination and gait disturbances
• Vision impairments
• Speech difficulties
• Memory and cognitive issues
• Pelvic organ dysfunction (in cases of spinal metastases)
• Movement and sensation disorders in the lower limbs (spinal metastases)

These symptoms are non-specific and can occur in many diseases. Epilepsy is associated with brain tumors in approximately 35% of cases. A patient older than 45 years significantly increases the likelihood that epilepsy is linked to a brain tumor.

What to Do If One or More Metastases Are Found in the Brain or Skull?

In such cases, a neurosurgeon consultation is necessary to evaluate treatment options. The doctor will assess the patient's overall condition, test results, primary tumor details, and imaging findings (MRI or CT) to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with or suspects brain metastases, a neurosurgeon consultation is needed. We are happy to consult and find the best possible solution for your situation.

When an in-person consultation is not possible, we also offer remote consultations via video call. You can schedule an appointment electronically or by contacting us via phone or email. Remote consultations should be arranged directly through us.

What Examinations Are Needed for Suspected Brain or Spinal Metastases?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with contrast is considered the gold standard for suspected tumors. Sometimes, a CT scan of the head is more readily available to clarify the diagnosis. If there is no additional kidney disease, contrast-enhanced CT is preferable, as the contrast agent is eliminated through the kidneys.

What Are the Treatment Options for Nervous System or Skull Metastases?

The primary treatment methods are surgery (surgical removal of metastases) and radiation therapy.

If the metastasis is inaccessible for surgery or the operation would involve a very high risk, the doctor may recommend stereotactic radiosurgery – targeted radiation of the metastasis.

If you are considering surgery with us, you can explore patient testimonials from Latvia and international patients who have undergone treatment with us.

Our clinical base, where surgeries and procedures are performed, is the modern and well-equipped Aiwa Clinic.

Brain Metastases: What Is the Treatment Prognosis?

The prognosis depends on the primary tumor’s location, aggressiveness, spread, and the number and location of brain metastases. However, in most cases, significant improvements in symptoms, quality of life, and survival rates can be achieved.