Leptomeningeal Metastasis: Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

As therapeutic options and supportive care for the treatment of neoplastic disease have improved, there has been an associated increase in the incidence of leptomeningeal disease. In this review, the clinical presentation, natural history, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment options for this often devastating sequela of solid tumors, lymphoma, and leukemia will be summarized. The therapeutic efficacy of ionizing radiation, systemic agents, and intrathecal drugs will be examined from the existing literature. Additionally the pathophysiology, which in part defines the therapeutic limitations in approaching this patient population, will be discussed in order to assist in individualized clinical decision making.