A metastatic brain tumor is cancer that has spread to the brain from another part of the body—commonly the lung, breast, skin, kidney and bladder.

Cells from these sites can be carried to the brain via blood or lymphatic fluid. Metastatic brain tumors occur more frequently than primary brain tumors (those that develop in the brain), and typically among middle-aged and elderly women and men.

Most people with metastatic brain cancer have multiple tumors. These tumors are classified based on tissue type as well as location in the brain and where the cancer originated. Most are found in the cerebrum, but they also can situate themselves in the brain stem and cerebellum. In some cases, treatment is palliative and focuses on comfort and relief of symptoms.

Symptoms

• General ill feeling or lethargy
• Fever(sometimes)
• Vomiting and/or nausea
• Headache
• Seizures
• Behavioral and cognitive changes
• Memory loss
• Speech problems
• Double or decreased vision
• Numbness, tingling and pain
• Weakness