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Carcinomatous meningitis: clinical manifestations and management
B Zachariah1, S B Zachariah, R Varghese
1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA.
Abstract:
Carcinomatous meningitis (CM) is a cause of significant morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. During the past 15 years, diffuse leptomeningeal metastases of extracranial malignant tumors have been increasingly reported [Wasserstrom et al. 1982, Theodore and Gendelman 1981, Little et al. 1974, Olson et al. 1974, Yaphey et al. 1978, Sorensen et al. 1984], CM is increasing in frequency because of improved survival of patients with systemic anti neoplastic therapies and increased awareness of this problem among physicians. In this review, we will be discussing the epidemiology, etiology, pathology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management of carcinomatous meningitis, as well as the status of recent basic and clinical investigations.
Insights
Carcinomatous meningitis (CM), or cancer spread to the brain lining, significantly impacts cancer patient survival. This review covers CM
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Pathology
Background:
- Carcinomatous meningitis (CM) is a serious complication in cancer patients.
- Leptomeningeal metastases from extracranial tumors are increasingly recognized.
- Improved cancer survival rates contribute to the rising incidence of CM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of carcinomatous meningitis.
- To discuss the epidemiology, etiology, pathology, and pathophysiology of CM.
- To review clinical manifestations, diagnosis, management, and current research in CM.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of carcinomatous meningitis.
- Analysis of epidemiological trends.
- Synthesis of clinical and pathological findings.
Main Results:
- CM is associated with significant patient morbidity and mortality.
- The incidence of CM is increasing due to better cancer therapies and physician awareness.
- Extracranial malignant tumors are a common source of leptomeningeal metastases.
Conclusions:
- Carcinomatous meningitis presents a growing clinical challenge in cancer care.
- A thorough understanding of CM's multifaceted aspects is crucial for effective patient management.
- Ongoing research is vital for advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for CM.