Immuno-radiotherapy for brain metastases

Abstract

Brain metastases (BM) are a lethal consequence of systemic dissemination of cancer. The most common malignancies that metastasize to the brain are lung, breast, and melanoma. Eighty percent of patients present with brain metastases within the cerebral hemispheres; 15% are within the cerebellar hemispheres and 5% are within the brainstem. The incidence of brain metastases is increasing because of better detection from improved imaging techniques (also for staging asymptomatic patients), and more effective systemic treatment regimens that can prolong life, permitting the cancer to disseminate to the brain, a sanctuary site.