Metastatic melanoma brain tumour

A metastatic melanoma brain tumour is melanoma that has spread to the brain. Its effects depend on its position, size, number of lesions, swelling around the lesion and whether other organs are involved. Possible symptoms include headache, nausea, seizures, weakness, numbness, vision changes, speech difficulty, personality change or problems with balance. Some lesions are discovered on imaging before symptoms appear. These symptoms can also have other causes, so they require clinical assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

An MRI scan gives detailed images that help the team plan care. Doctors may involve oncology, neurosurgery, radiation specialists and symptom-support services. The plan may address the brain lesions and melanoma elsewhere in the body.

Attend the recommended imaging and specialist appointments, and report changes in headache, movement, speech, vision, alertness or seizures. Treatment may include medicines for swelling or seizures, systemic therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, broader radiotherapy or brain tumour surgery. The choice depends on lesion features, symptoms, previous treatment, overall health and the wider melanoma plan. Ask about driving, work, exercise and who should receive updates.

Seek emergency help for a first seizure, a seizure lasting longer than expected, sudden weakness or numbness, new difficulty speaking, severe or rapidly worsening headache, repeated vomiting, fainting, marked drowsiness or confusion. Do not drive yourself after a seizure or sudden neurological change. Contact the oncology team quickly about any new neurological symptom, even if it settles.

Ask how many brain lesions are present, whether swelling is contributing to symptoms, what the MRI shows, and whether local treatment, systemic treatment or both are advised. Discuss likely effects on memory, balance and energy, how follow-up scans will be scheduled, and which symptoms require an immediate call.