Cancer in the Brain
Studies show that 10 to 20 percent of breast cancer that metastasizes goes to the brain (1-3).
Symptoms of brain metastases are headaches, seizures or problems with vision, speech, moving, memory, talking, etc., but some people show no symptoms. Metastases are diagnosed with MRI, CT scan, PET scan or biopsy.
Surgery is often the preferred treatment. Radiation therapy—painless X-rays that damage or destroy tumor cells—can be used locally after surgery to prevent recurrence. When surgery is not an option, radiation can be used locally to relieve symptoms. It can also treat the whole brain.
Stereotactic radiosurgery is another option. Despite the name, it is not surgery, but rather very focused radiation therapy. It is also known by the names of Gamma Knife, XKnife, and Cyberknife. This one-time treatment is delivered to a small area by several beams that are computer guided.
Chemotherapy is another option, but can be a problem due to what is called the blood-brain barrier. Cancer cells can get through this barrier, but chemotherapy is often prevented from reaching the area to be treated. New chemotherapies are being developed to address this problem.
Other treatments include giving steroids to reduce swelling and improve mental functioning, and offering anti-seizure medications. Complementary therapies can also help. Among many others, these therapies include stress management, relaxation training, group support and acupuncture.
Our booklet for metastatic breast cancer patients, I Still Buy Green Bananas (PDF file), is available to answer more of your questions. Feel free to call the YourShoesTM 24/7 Breast Cancer Support Center anytime and speak with someone who’s been there.