Brain Metastases

Understanding Brain Metastases: Key Information for Patients in New Jersey 

Brain Metastases are cancerous tumors that have spread (metastasized) to the brain from cancer located elsewhere in the body. They originate from primary cancers, such as lung, breast, melanoma, kidney, or colon, that travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to the brain.

The prognosis for patients with brain metastases depends on several factors, including the number of tumors, control of the primary cancer, overall patient health, and the treatment options available. In many cases, brain metastases can be managed successfully for months or even years.

What Are the Symptoms of Brain Metastases? 

Unlike primary brain tumors (such as glioblastomas or meningiomas), brain metastases are secondary tumors, meaning they originate elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain. Each year, an estimated 150,000 to 200,000 people are diagnosed with brain metastases, compared to about 17,000 cases of primary brain tumors.

The number of brain metastases diagnoses is growing, partly due to increased awareness, improved imaging, and longer survival among cancer patients. Modern cancer treatments are more effective at controlling disease elsewhere in the body, but many of these drugs do not adequately penetrate the brain, leaving it vulnerable to metastases.

Common sites of the brain in which metastases occur include the cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum, and the brainstem.

Symptoms include: 

• Headaches
• Seizures
• Memory problems
• Weakness or numbness
• Personality or behavioral changes
• Nausea/vomiting (due to increased intracranial pressure)

What Are the Risk Factors of Brain Metastases? 

The risk factors for brain metastases are closely tied to the type and stage of cancer, along with individual health factors. 

Some cancers are much more likely to spread to the brain than others. The most common include:

• Lung cancer (especially small cell and non-small cell types)
• Breast cancer, particularly HER2-positive and triple-negative types (up to 30% of all breast cancer patients are diagnosed with brain metastases during their lifetime) 
• Melanoma (skin cancer)

Less often, brain metastases arise from kidney cancer, colon cancer and thyroid cancer, among others.

Additional risk factors include:

• Genetic mutations:
  • HER2-positive (breast cancer)
  • EGFR or ALK mutations (lung cancer)
  • BRAF mutations (melanoma)
• Presence of metastases in other organs (e.g., liver, bones, adrenal glands)
• Advanced or Stage IV cancer
• Aggressive or poorly differentiated tumors, which are more likely to spread early

What Types of Doctors Treat Brain Metastases? | Experts in New Jersey

Treating brain metastases requires a multidisciplinary team of specialists, since it involves both the brain and the primary cancer site. Physicians involved might include a neuro-oncologist, a neurosurgeon, a radiation oncologist, a medical oncologist, a neurologist, and/or a palliative care specialist. 

Our subspecialized surgeons at New Jersey Brain and Spine are ready to quickly evaluate and treat brain metastases. We recognize the urgency and complexity of this diagnosis, and we provide care that is compassionate, individualized, and grounded in the latest medical advances.

What Are the Treatment Options for Brain Metastases? 

Treatment depends on the number, size, and location of metastases, as well as the patient’s overall health and cancer status. Common treatment approaches include: 

• Medications , such as corticosteroids (to reduce swelling) and anti-seizure drugs
• Radiation therapy, such as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT)
• Surgery, to remove accessible tumors or relieve symptoms
• Systemic therapies, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the primary cancer

The highly specialized neurosurgeon team at New Jersey Brain and Spine offers expert, compassionate treatment, ensuring the best outcomes for patients experiencing brain metastases. 

Case Study: Successful Treatment of a Patient with Brain Metastases 

Jeremy, a 54-year-old teacher, had been managing stable non-small cell lung cancer with targeted therapy when he began experiencing headaches and occasional seizures. An MRI revealed two brain metastases: one in the right frontal lobe, and a smaller one in the cerebellum.

The multidisciplinary team at New Jersey Brain and Spine recommended immediate surgical intervention. A neurosurgeon performed a craniotomy to remove the larger frontal lobe tumor, relieving pressure and confirming the diagnosis. The cerebellar lesion, which was less accessible surgically, was successfully treated with Gamma Knife SRS.

At Jeremy’s three-month follow-up, MRI scans showed no residual tumor at the surgical site and complete control of the cerebellar lesion. His symptoms resolved, and his quality of life significantly improved. A 12-month follow-up showed stable disease with no new brain lesions.

Why Trust NJBS Neurosurgeons for Brain Metastases Care in New Jersey

At New Jersey Brain and Spine, recognized as one of the top 10 neurosurgery practices in the country, our team brings unmatched experience and expertise to the treatment of brain metastases. Our patient-first philosophy means we tailor every care plan to each individual’s unique needs.

Medical science now offers game-changing options for patients facing brain metastases—and New Jersey Brain and Spine is at the forefront of those innovations.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms or has concerns, contact New Jersey Brain and Spine today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Brain Metastases