Cancer on the brain

Hello , my dad is 82 and is currently in hospital. He has been having radiation treatment for cancer on the spine . He is delusional most of the time confused etc . He had a scan on his head and some abnormalities have been found . My mum spoke to the consultant today who told her that apparently they were seeds . Unfortunately I couldn’t be at the hospital to speak to the doctor! After asking my mum she said ‘ it’s a little bit of cancer ‘ . 
How quick does this spread please and is it terminal . I think my mum is trying to ‘ sugar coat ‘ it for us . But we’d rather know the truth bet it’s stressing us all out and were concerned for my mum . 
Thanks 

  • Hello Nala592 and thanks for the post

    I am sorry to hear about your dad, this must be a difficult time for all the family.

    From what you say it seems some cancer has been picked up in the brain ( known as metastases) when a cancer spreads from the primary site to another part of the body.

    I'm afraid the way a cancer behaves, grows and spreads is different in each patient. Without being directly involved in your dad's care we cannot say how aggressive your dads cancer is or what the short and longer term may look like for him. This can only be answered by the doctors and nurses looking after him.

    I suggest trying to have an open and honest conversation with your mum to try and find out more. If she doesn't know but is happy for you to have a conversation with your dad's doctors I am sure this can be arranged.

    I hope you know more soon.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Best wishes,

    Naomi