Risk factors for brain metastases in patients with non–small‐cell lung cancer

Abstract

Brain metastases (BM) are severe incidents in patients with non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The controversial value of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) in NSCLC in terms of survival benefit prompted us to explore the possible risk factors for BM in NSCLC and identify the potential population most likely to benefit from PCI. Risk factors for brain metastases in NSCLC are reviewed in this article. Identifying patients with a higher risk of BM could possibly increase the benefit of PCI while reducing the discomfort and risks caused by unnecessary invasive procedures in the NSCLC patient population. Future studies might focus on finding a solid basis for the prediction of the occurrence of brain metastases and for the therapeutic decision on the use of PCI.

Abstract

Brain metastases are a severe incident in patients with non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and it is still common. Controversial value of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) in NSCLC in terms of survival benefit prompted us to explore the possible risk factors for brain metastases (BM) in NSCLC and identify the potential population most likely to benefit from PCI. There are several risk factors of brain metastases in NSCLC. Identifying patients with higher risk of BM could possibly make them receive a greater benefit from PCI, then reduce the discomfort and the unnecessary risks caused by invasive procedures. Future study might take into consideration to find solid basis for therapeutic decisions.