Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

How do metastatic tumors typically present within the brain?

1. As single tumors

2. As fluid-filled cysts

3. As multiple tumors that light up on imaging

4. As areas of necrosis

The correct answer is: As multiple tumors that light up on imaging

Metastatic tumors in the brain often present as multiple lesions, which is a crucial characteristic that helps differentiate them from primary brain tumors. These tumors originate from cancer in another part of the body and migrate to the brain through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. When imaged, such as with MRI or CT scans, these metastatic lesions typically show up distinctly, often described as "lighting up" due to their increased vascularity and cellularity compared to normal brain tissue. This imaging feature is essential for diagnosis and assists in determining the extent of the disease, which is critical for treatment planning. The nature of metastases also means they frequently arise in multiple locations rather than as a singular tumor, underscoring the importance of recognizing their pattern during assessments.