[Current management of brain metastases].

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Cancer Metastasis
• Palliative Care

Context:

• Cerebral metastases affect 15-20% of cancer patients, often at advanced stages.
• Treatment goals focus on palliative care, preserving neurological status, and enhancing quality of life.
• The incidence of brain metastases is rising globally.

Purpose:

• To review current and emerging therapeutic strategies for managing cerebral metastases.
• To highlight the evolving role of chemotherapy and advanced radiation techniques.
• To emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in treatment planning.

Summary:

• Corticosteroids manage symptoms, while antiepileptics are for seizure patients.
• Whole brain radiation is effective for rapid symptom control in advanced disease.
• Surgery is indicated for solitary metastases in select patients; radiosurgery is an alternative for limited metastases.
• Chemotherapy is gaining importance for chemosensitive cancers with multiple metastases.
• Radiosurgery and whole brain radiotherapy are complementary, requiring further investigation for optimal use in multiple metastases (<4).

Impact:

• Therapeutic options are improving functional prognosis for patients with brain metastases.
• Multidisciplinary assessment is crucial for selecting the best treatment modalities.
• Advances in treatment offer better outcomes and quality of life for patients with brain metastases.