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Updated: Mar 16, 2026
Modeling Brain Metastases Through Intracranial Injection and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: June 7, 2020
Isolated brain metastasis from a small renal mass
Christopher J D Wallis1, Michelle R Downes2, Georg Bjarnason3
1Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract:
The identification of small renal masses is increasing. Active surveillance is a guideline-approved management strategy for select patients with small renal masses. Metastases during the observation of small renal masses are uncommon, and no cases of brain metastasis have been reported. We report the case of a 73-year-old man who presented with tonic-clonic seizures as the result of a brain metastasis from a small renal mass (3.5 cm in maximal dimension). Treatment with whole brain radiotherapy was undertaken successfully. The patient will undergo surveillance with consideration for systemic therapy at the time of progression.
Insights
Brain metastasis from small renal masses is rare. This case highlights a 73-year-old man with seizures due to brain metastasis from a 3.5 cm renal mass, successfully treated with radiotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nephrology
- Neurology
Background:
- Small renal masses are increasingly detected.
- Active surveillance is a recommended management strategy for select patients.
- Metastasis from small renal masses during observation is uncommon.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old man presented with tonic-clonic seizures.
- The seizures were caused by a brain metastasis.
- The metastasis originated from a small renal mass (3.5 cm).
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of brain metastasis from a small renal mass.
- The patient's brain metastasis was successfully treated with whole brain radiotherapy.
- The patient will undergo continued surveillance and consideration for systemic therapy upon progression.
Implications:
- This case expands the known metastatic potential of small renal masses.
- It underscores the importance of considering metastasis in patients with unexplained neurological symptoms.
- Further research may be needed to refine surveillance and treatment strategies for renal masses with metastatic potential.
