What should you know about metastatic melanoma spread to brain?

Brain metastases are melanoma deposits in the brain or its surrounding structures. Symptoms depend on the area affected and may include a new or worsening headache, nausea, vomiting, balance trouble, vision or speech changes, weakness, numbness, personality change, memory difficulty, or a seizure. Some lesions are found on imaging before symptoms begin.

These symptoms also occur with migraine, infection, medication effects, stroke, and other conditions. A clinician may arrange neurological examination and brain imaging, often with MRI when suitable. The team may also assess the rest of the body and review tumour features before discussing treatment.

Contact your melanoma or oncology team promptly about any new neurological change, even if it comes and goes. Do not drive after a seizure, fainting episode, or sudden loss of coordination. Bring a symptom timeline and medication list to assessment.

Treatment may combine medicines for swelling or seizures with focused radiation, surgery in selected circumstances, and systemic therapy. The plan depends on lesion location, number, symptoms, other melanoma sites, and your health.

Call emergency services for a first seizure, a seizure lasting longer than usual, sudden one-sided weakness, trouble speaking, severe sudden headache, repeated vomiting with drowsiness, collapse, or new confusion. These signs need immediate assessment.

Ask what the brain scan shows, whether swelling is present, and which symptoms should trigger emergency help. Discuss the purpose and timing of each treatment, seizure precautions, driving advice, and follow-up imaging.