Secondary cancer

Secondary Cancer

Secondary cancer, also known as metastatic cancer, is a type of cancer that has spread from the part of the body where it started (the primary site) to other parts of the body. When cancer cells break away from a tumor, they can travel to other areas of the body through the bloodstream or the lymph system.

Causes

Secondary cancer is caused by the spread of cancer cells from the primary site to other parts of the body. This can occur through the bloodstream, the lymphatic system, or by direct extension into nearby tissues.

Symptoms

The symptoms of secondary cancer depend on the part of the body it has spread to. For example, secondary cancer in the lung may cause shortness of breath or a persistent cough. Secondary cancer in the bone can cause pain or fractures.

Diagnosis

Secondary cancer is usually diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests may include imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs, biopsy to examine the cells under a microscope, and blood tests to check for markers of cancer.

Treatment

The treatment for secondary cancer depends on the type of primary cancer, the extent of the spread, the patient's overall health, and the patient's personal preferences. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these.

Prognosis

The prognosis for secondary cancer varies widely and depends on many factors, including the type of primary cancer, the extent of the spread, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment.

See also

• Cancer
• Metastasis
• Oncology

Secondary cancer Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia