brain mets

[KsGal]

Okay, I have a question. KG said her mother was told that is no pill or chemo that crosses the blood brain barrier. I was under the impression that Tykerb crossed the brain barrier? Was that incorrect? Im all done with the WBR, and waiting six weeks to get a brain scan to see what effect it has had. Still on the Herceptin, getting ready to start Tykerb. I actually thought that was why I was starting the Tykerb was that it crossed the blood brain barrier.

[Rolepaul]

Tykerb and Xeloda do pass the BBB. Herceptin does not in therapeutic amounts. Gamma Knife and IMRT will continue to be a first line therapy as they are less costly and can provide an immediate response that is measurable in a month. Intrathecal Herceptin is not widely in place yet. It is costly and requires weekly visits. I think if the lesions are not kept under control with WBR and/or Tykerb/Xeloda, then the IT Herceptin is the path to go.