Extensive local and systemic therapy in extraneural metastasized glioblastoma multiforme

Cases of extracranial metastases of glioblastoma multiforme to sites such as bones, spleen, lung, liver and kidneys have been reported but available information about treatment of organ and bone metastases is extremely scarce. In this report a case of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) of the temporal lobe with subsequent liver and bone metastases is described and the success of different chemotherapy regimens is discussed. Liver and bone metastases were effectively treated with temozolomide and later with carboplatin and docetaxel. Two years after first diagnosis symptomatic local recurrence occurred. Therefore a stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy was performed. As a result of relapse of liver metastases the patient received chemotherapy with adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and etoposide. Visceral metastases were stable, but nevertheless the patient died from local progression 3 years after first diagnosis. In conclusion, liver metastases of GBM can be effectively treated by chemotherapy. This case report suggests suitable substances which can be chosen according to clinical circumstances.