Your Care Instructions
A secondary malignant brain tumour is cancer that has spread to the brain from another part of the body. This type of tumour is different from a brain tumour that began in the brain. Cancer that spreads to the brain is called by the name of the initial (primary) cancer. For example, lung cancer that spreads to the brain is called metastatic lung cancer.
These tumours usually grow quickly and can spread throughout the brain. As malignant brain tumours grow, they can harm important brain functions. Brain cancer can be deadly.
There are many types of malignant brain tumours. Treatment depends on where the cancer started, the type of tumour, and where it is in the brain. Treatment may include radiation, surgery, chemotherapy or other medicines, or a combination of these treatments.
When you find out that you have cancer, you may feel many emotions and may need some help coping. Seek out family, friends, and counsellors for support. You also can do things at home to make yourself feel better while you go through treatment. Call the Canadian Cancer Society (1-888-939-3333) or visit its website at www.cancer.ca for more information.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
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