Csontmetasztázis

Csontmetasztázis is the spread of cancer cells from a primary tumor to the bones. When cancer metastasizes to the bone, it means that the cancer has become malignant and has spread from its original location. This is a common occurrence in many types of cancer, particularly breast, prostate, lung, and kidney cancers. The presence of bone metastases can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, often leading to pain, fractures, and other complications.

The process of csontmetasztázis involves cancer cells detaching from the primary tumor, entering the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and then settling in the bone marrow. Once in the bone, these cells can proliferate and disrupt normal bone structure and function. This disruption can manifest in several ways: osteolytic lesions, where bone is destroyed; osteoblastic lesions, where new, abnormal bone is formed; or a combination of both.

Symptoms of csontmetasztázis can vary depending on the location and extent of the metastases. Common signs include bone pain, which may worsen at night or with activity, pathological fractures (fractures that occur with minimal or no trauma), spinal cord compression if the metastases affect the spine, and hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, and confusion. Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, bone scans, or PET scans, often supplemented by blood tests and biopsies.

Treatment for csontmetasztázis aims to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve the patient's quality of life. Therapeutic options may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and bone-modifying agents like bisphosphonates or denosumab. Pain management is a crucial aspect of care, utilizing analgesics and sometimes palliative radiation.