Brain metastases have been demonstrated to involve or closely approximate the hippocampus which could directly damage neurons responsible for memory function. Progression of these lesions or treatment with local modalities would have a similar or worse effect on memory decline as WBRT.
Cognitive impairment is a common symptom in patients with brain metastasis, and significant cognitive dysfunction is prevalent in a majority of patients who AbstractIntroductionMethodsResults
One of the most debilitating side effects associated with brain metastases is neurocognitive decline, most notably memory impairment. The underlying pathology of cognitive decline in patients with brain metastases is multifactorial. A common cause is the cancer itself, and of course the occurrence of brain metastases.
Causes
Brain metastases occur when cancer cells break away from their original location.
The cells may travel through the bloodstream or the lymph system and spread (metastasize) to the brain where they begin to multiply.
Metastatic cancer that spreads from its original location is known by the name of the primary cancer.
For example, cancer that has spre.
Overview
Brain metastases occur when cancer cells spread from their original site to the brain.
Any cancer can spread to the brain, but the types most likely to cause brain metastases are lung, breast, colon, kidney and melanoma.
Brain metastases may form one tumor or many tumors in the brain.
As the metastatic brain tumors grow, they create pressure on and.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms caused by brain metastases can vary based on the location, size and rate of growth of the metastatic tumors.
Signs and symptoms of brain metastases include:.
1) Headache, sometimes with vomiting or nausea.
2) Mental changes, such as increasing memory problems.
3) Seizures.
4) Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) is a treatment option for patients with brain metastases.
In WBRT, radiation therapy is administered broadly, to the whole brain, over multiple treatments.
