Late stage cancer

Late Stage Cancer

Late stage cancer, also known as advanced cancer, is a term used to describe cancer that has spread beyond the primary site to other parts of the body. This process is known as metastasis. Late stage cancer is characterized by the presence of cancer cells in the lymph nodes, organs, or other body parts distant from the original tumor site.

Overview

Late stage cancer is not a specific type of cancer, but rather a description of how far a cancer has progressed. The stages of cancer are typically determined using the TNM staging system, which takes into account the size of the tumor, whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, and whether it has metastasized to other parts of the body.

Symptoms

The symptoms of late stage cancer can vary widely depending on the type of cancer and the areas of the body affected. Common symptoms may include pain, fatigue, weight loss, and changes in skin color or jaundice. Some patients may also experience neurological symptoms if the cancer has spread to the brain or spinal cord.

Treatment

Treatment for late stage cancer is typically focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, rather than curing the disease. This is often referred to as palliative care. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and targeted therapy. In some cases, clinical trials may also be an option.

Prognosis

The prognosis for late stage cancer is generally poor, with many patients surviving less than a year after diagnosis. However, survival rates can vary widely depending on the type of cancer, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment.

See also

• Cancer staging
• Metastasis
• Palliative care
• Oncology