Leptomeningeal metastases of solid cancer

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review recent original data on leptomeningeal metastases in patients with solid cancer.

Recent findings: Lung and breast cancer as well as melanoma remain the most common primaries. Advanced cytological methods and targeted sequencing for candidate tumor-specific mutations may improve the sensitivity of cerebrospinal fluid diagnostics in leptomeningeal metastases. Targeted treatments like epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer, anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 treatments for breast cancer or B-rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma-targeted or immunotherapy for melanoma have an emerging role in the management of this condition.

Summary: Novel diagnostic approaches and the introduction of targeted agents may improve the clinical management of patients with leptomeningeal metastases from solid cancers.