What should you know about skin cancer brain metastases?

Skin cancer brain metastases are cancer deposits that have spread from a skin cancer to the brain and need specialist assessment. Melanoma is a skin cancer that can spread in this way, while other cancers such as lung or breast cancer can also cause brain metastases. A scan finding needs review alongside the original cancer history, symptoms, and sometimes tissue information.

Symptoms depend on the location and size of the deposits and may include headache, nausea, seizures, weakness, numbness, speech or vision changes, confusion, or problems with balance. Some people have no new symptoms and the finding is discovered during planned imaging. A specialist may use brain imaging and other tests to map the disease and check whether cancer is present elsewhere. The [Brain Metastases](/conditions/brain-metastases/) page gives broader information about this condition.

Treatment is tailored to the number, position, size, symptoms, and overall pattern of disease, as well as the original skin cancer and previous treatments. Options can include medicines that act through the body, focused [Stereotactic Radiosurgery](/treatments/radiation-oncology/stereotactic-radiosurgery/), [Whole Brain Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/whole-brain-radiotherapy/), or [Brain Tumour Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/brain-tumour-surgery/). Steroids or anti-seizure medicines may also be discussed for particular symptoms. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice.

Seek emergency help for a first seizure, a seizure that does not stop, sudden weakness, new trouble speaking, severe confusion, collapse, or a rapidly worsening headache with vomiting. Contact the oncology team promptly for new neurological symptoms, repeated vomiting, or increasing drowsiness. These warning signs need assessment because pressure or irritation in the brain can worsen quickly.

Ask what the scan shows, whether more imaging is needed, and how the original skin cancer affects treatment choices. Ask whether focused radiation, whole-brain treatment, surgery, or systemic medicine is being considered, how symptoms will be managed, and who to contact outside appointments. You may also ask whether a [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/) review is relevant to your diagnosis.