Current treatment of leptomeningeal metastases: systemic chemotherapy, intrathecal chemotherapy and symptom management

Abstract

Treatment of leptomeningeal metastases is multifaceted and includes symptomatic therapy, intrathecal and systemic chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. As the majority of patients have widespread incurable systemic tumor, treatment is predominantly palliative; however, some patients with leukemia, lymphoma or breast cancer may have prolonged remissions and the possibility of cure.