Metastazele

Metastazele, in medical terms metastases, are secondary tumors that arise when cancer cells detach from a primary tumor and travel to distant sites in the body, where they form new tumors. This process typically involves invasion into blood or lymphatic vessels, survival in circulation, exit at a new location, and growth within a supportive microenvironment.

Common metastatic sites vary by the type of primary cancer but often include the liver, lungs, bones, and brain. Other frequent locations are the adrenal glands, peritoneum, and skin. Metastatic patterns reflect both the biology of the cancer and the anatomy of vascular and lymphatic routes. Lesions may be detected synchronously with the primary tumor or emerge later (metachronous metastases).

Diagnosis relies on imaging methods such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography, supplemented by biopsy for histology and molecular profiling. Immunohistochemistry helps identify the tissue of origin when the primary site is unknown. Staging uses terms like M1 to denote the presence of distant metastases, alongside the traditional TNM system. Biomarkers can aid in characterizing disease and monitoring response to therapy.

Treatment of metastazele is typically systemic, aiming to control disease and prolong survival. This includes chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies tailored to the cancer type. Local therapies, such as radiation therapy or surgical debulking, may relieve symptoms or treat limited metastatic deposits. Palliative care and supportive measures focus on quality of life. Prognosis depends on the primary cancer, burden and distribution of metastases, molecular features, and treatment response; some cancers remain controlled for extended periods, while others progress rapidly.