Distant Metastatic Disease

Distant metastatic disease occurs when cancer cells break away from the original tumor and spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to develop in other parts of the body, far from the initial site. This process creates new tumors, called metastases, in organs like the lungs, liver, bones, or brain. These secondary tumors can affect how the body functions and often make treatment more challenging. Recognizing and managing metastatic disease is crucial for determining prognosis and planning effective therapy to control the spread and improve quality of life.