metastatic tumors

Metastatic tumors occur when cancer cells break away from the original tumor and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to form new tumors in other parts of the body. These secondary tumors, called metastases, are essentially the spread of the original cancer. They can develop in organs like the lungs, liver, bones, or brain. Metastasis often indicates that cancer has advanced and may be more difficult to treat. Understanding metastasis is important for diagnosis, prognosis, and choosing appropriate treatment strategies.