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[Brain metastases. Radiologic diagnosis and therapy]
M Flentje1, J Görich, M Wannenmacher
1Abteilung Klinische Radiologie mit Poliklinik, Radiologischen Universitätsklinik Heidelberg.
Der Radiologe
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Diagnosing and treating brain metastases, common in advanced cancers, involves imaging and whole-brain radiation. Prophylactic irradiation can improve survival in small-cell lung cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Brain metastasis signifies advanced malignancy with severe symptoms requiring prompt diagnosis and palliation.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning and patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnostic procedures and treatment strategies for brain metastases.
- To evaluate the efficacy of whole-brain irradiation and prophylactic irradiation in specific cancer types.
Main Methods:
- Review of established diagnostic procedures, including contrast-enhanced computer-assisted tomography.
- Analysis of treatment outcomes for whole-brain irradiation and prophylactic brain irradiation.
Main Results:
- Contrast-enhanced CT effectively determines metastasis size, number, and intracranial pressure signs.
- Whole-brain irradiation yields 60-80% symptomatic response with a median survival of 5 months.
- Prophylactic irradiation in small-cell lung cancer improves survival and reduces metastasis incidence.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and effective palliation are essential for managing brain metastases.
- Treatment outcomes depend on primary tumor histology, patient condition, and extracerebral disease progression.
- Prophylactic brain irradiation is beneficial for select small-cell lung cancer patients, but higher doses may increase neurological risks.