Published on: 5/22/2025
How Does Prostate Cancer Metastasize to Other Parts of the Body?
Prostate cancer can spread to other parts of the body, most commonly to bones, by moving through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Explanation
Prostate cancer can spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. This often happens through the blood or lymphatic systems.
Common Sites of Metastasis:
- Bones: The bones are the most common place where prostate cancer spreads. This can lead to pain and weakened bones.
- Lymph Nodes: Cancer cells can also move to nearby lymph nodes, which are part of the body's immune system.
Process of Metastasis:
- Bloodstream and Lymphatic System: Cancer cells break away from the original tumor in the prostate. They travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Effects on Health:
- Bone Health: When cancer spreads to the bones, it can cause significant pain and increase the risk of fractures.
Understanding how prostate cancer spreads helps in managing the disease and planning treatment. By knowing the common sites of metastasis, doctors can monitor and treat these areas effectively.
(References)
- Bubendorf L, Schöpfer A, Wagner U, Sauter G, Moch H, Willi N, et al. (2000). Metastatic patterns of prostate cancer: an autopsy study .... Human pathology, 10836297.
- Baldessari C, Pipitone S, Molinaro E, Cerma K, Fanelli M, Nasso C, et al. (2023). Bone Metastases and Health in Prostate Cancer. Cancers, 36900309.
- Manna F, Karkampouna S, Zoni E, De Menna M, Hensel J, Thalmann GN, & Kruithof-de Julio M. (2019). Metastases in Prostate Cancer. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine, 29661810.
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