Two radiation approaches for cancer spread to the brain and spine

This trial is comparing two different radiation therapy approaches for a serious condition called leptomeningeal metastasis—when breast cancer or lung cancer spreads to the thin membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. One approach uses standard radiation focused on specific areas causing symptoms. The other uses newer proton radiation therapy delivered to the entire space containing the brain and spinal cord. The trial wants to see which approach helps patients live longer and controls the cancer better in the brain and spine.

Leptomeningeal metastasis is a devastating complication of advanced cancer with very poor survival. Doctors are uncertain whether treating only the visible problem areas with standard radiation is better than treating the entire brain and spinal cord space with newer proton therapy. This trial will help answer that question and potentially improve outcomes for future patients.