Longmetastasen

Longmetastasen are metastatic tumors in the lungs that originate from cancer cells that have spread from a primary tumor outside the lungs. They are a form of systemic cancer and are not the same as a primary lung cancer. The lungs are a common site for metastasis because they receive the entire cardiac output and have a vast capillary network that can trap circulating tumor cells.

Common primary sources of lung metastases include breast, colorectal, kidney, melanoma, and sarcoma cancers, as well as cancers of the head and neck. The pattern of lung involvement can vary from numerous small nodules to a few larger masses, and the disease may be focal or diffuse. Spread to the lungs typically occurs through the bloodstream, but lymphatic or direct spread from an adjacent structure can also occur.

Clinical presentation ranges from no symptoms to respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood. Symptoms often reflect the burden of disease and the status of the primary cancer. Diagnosis usually begins with imaging, most commonly a CT scan of the chest, which may reveal multiple nodules or masses. Biopsy or cytology is often required to confirm metastasis and to determine histology, especially to distinguish metastases from a new primary lung cancer. Staging studies and evaluation of the primary tumor are used to guide treatment.

Treatment depends on the biology of the primary cancer, the extent of metastatic disease, and patient factors. Systemic therapy (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy) is the mainstay for most patients. Local therapies such as surgical metastasectomy or stereotactic body radiotherapy may be considered for selected patients with limited disease, while palliative radiotherapy can relieve symptoms. Prognosis is variable and generally reflects overall disease control rather than a localized lung lesion alone.