Definition:
Metastasis is the movement or spreading of cancer cells from one organ or tissue to another. Cancer cells usually spread through the bloodstream or the lymph system.
Alternative Names:
Metastatic cancer; Cancer metastases
Information:
Whether or not cancer cells metastasize (spread to) to other parts of the body depends on many factors, including: Treatment depends on the type of cancer and where it has metastasized.
References:
Lippman SM, Hong WK. Cancer prevention. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 191. Perry MC. Principles of cancer therapy. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 192.
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