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Secondary cancer

Leptomeningeal metastases

Leptomeningeal metastases mean cancer cells have spread to two thin tissue layers covering the brain and spinal cord (the leptomeninges). The leptomeninges are part of the brain meninges.

What are leptomeningeal metastases?

Leptomeningeal metastases mean cancer cells have spread to two thin tissue layers covering the brain and spinal cord (the leptomeninges).

Treatment for leptomeningeal metastases

Doctors are still looking at which treatments work best for treating leptomeningeal metastases. Treatment generally includes chemotherapy, targeted cancer drugs or radiotherapy.

Last reviewed: 21 Oct 2026

Next review due: 21 Oct 2029

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