METASTASIS Meaning and
Definition
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Metastasis is a term used in the medical field to describe the spread of cancer cells from the primary tumor to other parts of the body. It refers to the process of cancer cells breaking away from the original tumor and migrating through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to establish secondary tumors in distant organs or tissues.
Metastasis is a complex and crucial stage in cancer progression and is generally indicative of an advanced stage of the disease. It can occur in various types of cancer, including breast, lung, colon, prostate, and skin cancers, among others.
The mechanism of metastasis involves multiple steps, such as local invasion of cancer cells into surrounding tissues, intravasation (entering the blood vessels or lymphatic vessels), dissemination through circulation, extravasation (leaving the blood vessels or lymphatic vessels), and colonization in distant organs. These cells undergo changes that enable them to invade and migrate through tissues and survive in foreign environments.
Metastasis presents a significant challenge in cancer treatment and is often associated with a poorer prognosis, as it implies the spread of the disease beyond its original location. Detecting metastatic tumors at an early stage is crucial for effective treatment and management. Various diagnostic techniques, such as imaging tests and blood analyses, are used to identify and monitor the presence of metastases. Treatment approaches for metastatic cancer may involve a combination of therapies, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
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1. The shifting of a disease, or its local manifestations, from one part of the body to another, as is seen in mumps when the symptoms referable to the parotid gland subside and the testis becomes affected. 2. In cancer, the appearance of neoplasms in parts of the body remote from the seat of the primary tumor. 3. Transportation of bacteria from one part of the body to another, through the blood streams (hematogenous m.) or through lymph channels (lymphogenous m.).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The removal of a disease from one part to another.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Other Common Misspellings for METASTASIS
Etymology of METASTASIS
The word "metastasis" comes from the Greek word "metástasis" (μετάστασις), which is a combination of "meta" (μετά), meaning "change" or "beyond", and "stasis" (στάσις), meaning "standing" or "placement". In Greek, "metástasis" was commonly used to refer to the act of changing one's place or transferring from one location to another. In medical terminology, "metastasis" specifically refers to the spreading of cancerous cells from one part of the body to another.
Similar spelling words for METASTASIS
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