Weakness in the upper thigh region Weight gain Retention of fluid Blood sugar control problems Sleep disturbance Gastritis (irritation of the lining of the stomach) Acne breakouts Mood swings Immunosuppression (a condition where the immune system has a decreased ability to fight against infections)

There is also an increased risk of developing specific types of infections known as opportunistic infections. These are infections that take place because the bone marrow and, especially the white blood cells, are not working normally. Steroids may also be a contributing factor to the increased risk for developing blood clots.

Most often steroids are used in combination with surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy.

Another standard medical treatment, especially if seizures are present, is the use of anti-seizure medicines. The most common are Dilantinâ and Tegretolâ. When used properly and often combined with other treatments, they can be very effective in stopping seizures from occurring.

Patients who receive treatment for seizures and who receive other treatments (such as the use of radiation) in an effort to stop the growth of these brain metastases, may be at an increased risk for developing drug reactions. Patients taking phenytoin (DilantinÒ) or carbamazepin (Tegretolâ) can develop a rash and, in a small percentage, a very severe skin reaction known as the Stevens-Johnson syndrome.