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Treatment depending on the size and type of the tumor, the initial site of the tumor, and the general health of the person. The goals of treatment may be relief of symptoms, improved functioning, or comfort.
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Surgery may be used for metastatic brain tumors when there is a single lesion and when there is no cancer elsewhere in the body. Some may be completely removed. Tumors that are deep or that infiltrate brain tissue may be debulked (removing much of the tumor's mass to reduce its size).
Surgery may reduce pressure and relieve symptoms in cases when the tumor cannot be removed. Radiation therapy may be advised for tumors that are sensitive to radiation.
Medications may include the following:
- Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone to reduce brain swelling
- Osmotic diuretics such as urea or mannitol to reduce brain swelling
- Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin to reduce seizures
- Pain medication
- Antacids or antihistamines to control stress ulcers
- Chemotherapy
When multiple metastases (widespread cancer) are discovered, treatment may focus primarily on relief of pain and other symptoms.
Comfort measures, safety measures, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other interventions may improve the patient's quality of life. Legal advice may be helpful in forming advanced directives, such as power of attorney, in cases where continued physical or intellectual decline is likely.
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