Which of the following cancer metastasize to brain leastly: March 2011
## Core Concept
The question assesses the student's knowledge of the metastatic patterns of various cancers to the brain. Brain metastases are a common complication of cancer, and different primary cancers have different propensities to metastasize to the brain.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, such as colorectal and gastric cancer, are less likely to metastasize to the brain compared to other cancers like lung, breast, and melanoma. This is because the brain is not a common site for GI cancer spread, and these cancers more frequently metastasize to regional lymph nodes, liver, and lungs.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
* **Option A:** Lung cancer is one of the most common sources of brain metastases, often presenting with multiple lesions. This high propensity for brain metastasis is due to its direct access to the systemic circulation and the brain.
* **Option B:** Breast cancer frequently metastasizes to the brain, especially in the HER2-positive and triple-negative subtypes. The brain is a common site for metastasis in these aggressive subtypes.
* **Option C:** Melanoma has a high rate of brain metastasis, likely due to its aggressive nature and early hematogenous spread. Melanoma brain metastases can be single or multiple.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that while many cancers can metastasize to the brain, the most common primary cancers that metastasize to the brain are lung, breast, and melanoma. Gastrointestinal cancers are less likely to metastasize to the brain, making option **D** the correct answer.
## Correct Answer: D. Gastrointestinal cancer.