Melanoma and brain cancer: what to know

Melanoma begins in pigment-producing skin cells. If it travels beyond the original skin site, it may reach organs such as the brain; this is called brain metastasis, rather than a new primary brain cancer. A headache, dizziness, or another neurological symptom has many possible causes and does not by itself establish spread. Doctors combine your melanoma history with an examination and, when appropriate, brain imaging. The findings help define the extent of disease and shape a treatment plan.

Tell your oncology team about new neurological symptoms, previous melanoma treatment, and every medicine you take. Assessment may include a neurological examination and imaging, followed by discussion of surgery, focused radiation, or medicines that treat melanoma throughout the body. Skin examination and staging remain relevant even when the concern is the brain. You can read more about Melanoma and Brain Metastases, and about Immunotherapy, Surgical Excision, or Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment.

Seek urgent medical help for a sudden severe headache, a first seizure, new weakness or numbness on one side, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, or a rapidly worsening change in vision or balance. These red flags need prompt assessment because neurological problems can have time-sensitive causes. Do not wait for a routine skin appointment when such symptoms are new or severe.

Ask which symptoms require same-day contact, whether brain imaging is appropriate, what the results could show, and how the findings would change treatment. Also ask who coordinates dermatology, oncology, neurology, and radiation care, how side effects will be monitored, and which follow-up visits or scans are planned.