Microtumours

Microtumors, also known as micrometastases, refer to small clusters of cancer cells that have detached from a primary tumor and spread to distant sites in the body. These microscopic deposits are typically too small to be detected by conventional imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI. Microtumors can form during the process of metastasis, where cancer cells invade nearby tissues and enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, eventually lodging in other organs.

The presence of microtumors is significant in oncology because they often indicate a higher risk of disease recurrence and poorer prognosis compared to tumors that remain localized. While some microtumors may remain dormant for extended periods, others can grow into clinically detectable secondary tumors, or metastases. Early detection of microtumors is challenging, but emerging techniques such as advanced imaging, molecular profiling, and liquid biopsy—where circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are analyzed in blood samples—are being explored to improve identification.

Microtumors can develop in various types of cancer, including breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers. Their behavior varies depending on the cancer type, the patient’s overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. Research into microtumors focuses on understanding their biology, developing targeted therapies, and improving early detection methods to enhance patient outcomes. Some studies suggest that certain treatments, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, may be more effective when administered early to eliminate residual cancer cells before they form detectable tumors.