Brain Metastasis

Brain metastases (also known as secondary brain cancer) are tumours that have spread to the brain from a cancer elsewhere in the body (primary cancer) – such as from breast or lung cancer, or melanoma. The patient has often already been diagnosed with the primary cancer, but sometimes the metastasis in the brain is the first sign.

Brain Metasrasis
  • Symptoms: Common symptoms of brain metastasis include headache, nausea, vomiting, changes in vision, movement, balance or speech, seizures, and changes in mood, behaviour, or cognitive function (thinking). 
  • Diagnosis: A diagnosis of brain metastasis is usually first suspected on a CT or MRI scan of the brain. The diagnosis may be confirmed by examination of tissue removed by surgery. However, if the cancer has already been diagnosed elsewhere in the body, tissue from the brain may not be required.
  • Treatment: Treatment options for brain metastasis include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of the primary cancer, the number, size and location of the brain metastases, and the overall health of the patient.
  • Prognosis: The prognosis for patients with brain metastasis varies greatly depending on the type and stage of the primary cancer, the number, size and location of brain metastases, and the overall health of the patient. Some brain metastases are curable or can be controlled for many years.
  • Managing symptoms: Patients may also need to manage symptoms such as headache, nausea, fatigue, seizures and sometimes neurological problems, which can be treated with medications and physiotherapy or occupational therapy.



It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. The team will be able to provide you with more detailed information about your specific situation and help you understand what to expect.