Prostate Cancer Metastasis Suspected in Alamogordo
Metastasis of prostate cancer is rare, occurring in less than 1% of metastatic prostate cancer patients; however, physicians should be aware of this possibility to allow appropriate monitoring and treatment. A 58-year-old Alamogordo man was diagnosed with stage II prostate cancer approximately one year ago. His oncologist ordered radiation therapy, which successfully eradicated the tumor’s presence in his prostate gland; however, the patient recently presented with new neurological symptoms that prompted further investigation. Although CT imaging revealed no change in the status of the patient’s primary tumor, an MRI indicated suspected metastasis to the brain.
What is brain metastasis?
Brain metastasis from prostate cancer is rare, occurring in less than 1% of metastatic prostate cancer patients. Brain metastasis can cause edema, and neurologic symptoms, and may be misdiagnosed as primary brain tumors on imaging. The diagnosis of brain metastases from prostate cancer is made through a combination of clinical examination, laboratory testing, and neuroimaging.
How common is brain metastasis in prostate cancer patients?
Brain metastasis from prostate cancer is rare, occurring in less than 1% of metastatic prostate cancer patients. Brain metastasis can cause edema, and neurologic symptoms, and may be misdiagnosed as primary brain tumors on imaging. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to get an MRI of your brain to rule out the possibility of a metastatic tumor.
What are the symptoms of brain metastasis?
Brain metastasis from prostate cancer is rare, occurring in less than 1% of metastatic prostate cancer patients. Brain metastasis can cause edema, and neurologic symptoms, and may be misdiagnosed as primary brain tumors on imaging. Prostate cancer cells can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body through a process called a hematogenous spread.
How is brain metastasis diagnosed?
Brain metastasis from prostate cancer is rare, occurring in less than 1% of metastatic prostate cancer patients. Brain metastasis can cause edema, and neurologic symptoms, and may be misdiagnosed as primary brain tumors on imaging. Patients with suspected or confirmed prostate cancer should undergo a contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to evaluate for the presence of a brain tumor.
