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Brain tumors - metastases
Metastases in the brain are also called brain metastases. These metastases are the result of a tumor that originated elsewhere in the body. The tumor usually starts in a certain part of the body, for example in the breast. In the event of a metastasis, this tumor spreads through the body through the blood and/or lymphs.
Learn more about brain metastases
Causes of metastases in the brain
10% to 40% of people with a solid tumor (cancer that originates in an organ or tissue) have to deal with metastases in the brain. The tumor cells end up in the small blood vessels of the brain. There they grow into tumors that can cause complaints. Metastases in the brain are much more common than a tumor that starts in the brain itself.
Metastases in the brain are more common in the last phase of a disease. Then there are often metastases further down the body, for example in the liver, bones or lungs.
All types of cancer can metastasize to the brain. For example, breast cancer, lung cancer and malignant skin cancer (melanoma).
Symptoms of metastases in the brain
The symptoms of a brain metastasis are different for everyone. That depends on the location of the metastasis in the brain. The symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Paralysis of the arm, leg or one side of the body
- Balance problems
- Seizures
- Difficulty talking
- Difficulty seeing
- Different behavior and/or forgetfulness
