Lung cancer is one of the deadliest diseases known to us. It starts when cells dramatically increase in number and start to invade the surrounding tissues.

In many cases, the cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream. This process, called metastasis, is a significant concern when it comes to lung cancer as it can lead to several other health implications.

Lung Cancer Metastasis: Understanding the Spread of Cancer

The risk of lung cancer spreading to other parts of the body depends on several factors, including the type and size of the tumor, how advanced it is, and the location of the primary tumor.

There are two ways in which lung cancer can spread: locally and distantly.

Local Spread

If the lung cancer cells grow and spread only to a specific area near the tumor, it’s called local spread. The following are the common ways that lung cancer can spread locally:.

Through Tissue Invasion

The tumor cells can spread by first invading the surrounding tissues or organs. As the cancer cells grow, they break down the walls of nearby blood vessels and lymph nodes, allowing them to spread throughout the area and form new tumors.

Through Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system drains lymphatic fluid throughout the body and filters out bacteria and other infectious particles. Cancer cells can also enter the lymphatic system and spread to other parts of the lymphatic system and other nearby organs.

If lung cancer metastasizes through the lymphatic system, it usually first travels to the lymph nodes in the chest area, including the mediastinal, tracheal, and bronchial lymph nodes, before spreading further.

Through Bloodstream

The bloodstream is another way that lung cancer can spread locally. Lung cancer cells can enter and spread through the tiny blood vessels in and around the lungs, leading to the development of new tumors in the lungs or other organs.

It’s essential to note that the majority of tumors that spread to other parts of the body will first enter the bloodstream.

Related Article Visualizing the spread of lung cancer

Distant Spread (Metastasis)

When lung cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it’s called metastasis. This process occurs when cancer cells break away from the primary tumor and enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, allowing it to travel throughout the body.

The most common locations for lung cancer to metastasize include the following:.

Bone

Lung cancer can spread to any bone in the body, but it most commonly spreads to the spine, ribs, pelvis, and long bones in the arms and legs. This can lead to bone pain, fractures, and weakness.

Brain

When lung cancer spreads to the brain, it can cause severe headaches, seizures, nausea, vomiting, and other neurological symptoms. Although the brain is a common location for lung cancer metastasis, it is often asymptomatic until symptoms develop.

Liver

As lung cancer cells move through the bloodstream, they can reach the liver and start to grow there. When this happens, the liver can become inflamed, causing liver pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice.

Adrenal Glands

The adrenal glands are small glands located on top of the kidneys. Lung cancer can spread to these glands, causing them to become enlarged and painful.

Other Organs

Lung cancer can also spread to other organs, including the pancreas, kidneys, bladder, and uterus. When this happens, it can lead to several complications based on the location of the metastasis.

Conclusion

Lung cancer is a deadly disease that can spread to other parts of the body and cause several complications. Knowing the ways that lung cancer can spread is the first step in early detection and preventing further spread.

If you experience any symptoms associated with lung cancer, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible.