Metastatic brain cancer can cause a variety of symptoms, which are commonly associated with other conditions, including:

Your risk for developing metastatic brain cancer increases if you have cancer in another part of the body, such as the:

• Breast
• Digestive system, such as colon cancer and stomach cancer
• Kidney
• Lung
• Reproductive system, such as ovarian cancer and cervical cancer
• Skin

Metastatic cancer is less likely to develop if the primary cancer:

• Is diagnosed at an early stage
• Responds to treatment
• Receives careful monitoring during follow-up

Accurately diagnosing metastatic brain cancer involves several steps. During the first part of your evaluation, your doctor asks about your medical and family history. The doctor also checks for changes in how your body is functioning to identify the tumor’s location. Your doctor may assess your:

• Balance and coordination
• Hearing and vision
• Strength and reflexes

Your doctor may order several imaging tests to confirm the presence of a tumor and its location and type. Most often, we use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide pictures of the brain. MRI technology combines radio waves with powerful magnets. There are several types of MRI:

• Functional MRI: This type detects changes in blood flow and evaluates other parts of the brain.
• Perfusion MRI: This imaging test identifies areas of the brain with reduced blood flow—a possible sign of a tumor.
• Tractography: This technique provides images of white matter tracts, which send electric signals and sensory information through the central nervous system. Our specialists use this innovative technology during surgery to remove the tumor while protecting important pathways.