Metastazeze

Metastazeze is a Romanian term describing the process of metastasis—the spread of cancer cells from a primary tumor to distant sites in the body. Metastasis is a defining feature of malignant tumors and often marks progression to advanced disease. The process generally involves several steps: local invasion of surrounding tissue, entry into blood vessels or the lymphatic system (intravasation), circulation as malignant cells, exit from vessels (extravasation) into distant tissues, and growth of secondary tumors (metastases) supported by adaptations to the new microenvironment. Cancer cells achieve this through genetic and epigenetic changes, enabling detachment, survival in the circulation, and evasion of immune defenses. The "seed and soil" hypothesis describes how certain tumor cells preferentially colonize particular organs based on compatibility with the target tissue.

Most metastases arise through the hematogenous route (bloodstream) or through the lymphatic system. Common metastatic sites include liver, lungs, bones, and brain, though tumor type influences patterns (e.g., colorectal cancer often to the liver; breast cancer to bone or liver; prostate cancer to bone).

Diagnosis generally relies on imaging studies such as CT, MRI, and PET-CT, complemented by biopsy to confirm metastases and identify molecular targets. In cancer staging, distant metastasis is designated M1 in the TNM system and influences prognosis and treatment goals. Treatments aim to control disease, relieve symptoms, and prolong survival and may include systemic therapies (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy) and regional approaches (surgery or radiotherapy) for symptom relief or local control.