Diagnosis and management of brain metastasis from gestational trophoblastic disease

Oncology (Williston Park). 1991 Jun;5(6):48-50; discussion 50, 53-4.

Abstract

Significant advances have been made since the introduction of methotrexate towards the improvement of long-term survival in patients with brain metastases from gestational trophoblastic disease. Early diagnosis via computed tomography of the head and beta-hCG serum testing along with aggressive, multiagent intervention have greatly improved patient prognosis from this once highly fatal condition. Although toxicity is commonly associated with this treatment, death from sepsis or drug reactions is unusual. Surgery has been found useful only to relieve intracranial pressure and is discouraged as part of diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Brain Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Brain Neoplasms / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / pathology*
  • Trophoblastic Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Trophoblastic Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Trophoblastic Neoplasms / therapy
  • Uterine Neoplasms / pathology*