[Management of increased intracranial pressure in metastatic brain tumor]

Metastatic brain tumors generally accompany huge peripheral edema, and half of the cases have multiple lesions. Thus, one must manage the increased intracranial pressure (IICP). Ideally, local control of the tumor progression by surgical removal with radiation or radiosurgery is the best method to reduce IICP. We usually use a glyceol or steroids as medical treatment. Steroids are effective for peripheral edema, and we have used them for inoperable patients over the long term. One should estimate the condition of the primary lesion, systemic metastasis, and intracranial lesion in order to determine the therapy to assure patients the best quality of life.