metastasis
Last reviewed 04/2023
Metastasis describes the state of having distant spread of a malignant tumour to a site removed from its origin. Generally, the aggressiveness and size of a given tumour is directly related to its ability to metastasize. An exception is CNS gliomas which are highly invasive but rarely metastasize.
Usually, the route of metastasis is characteristic of a particular tumour and can occur via:
- direct extension from the site of origin
- via fluid-filled spaces
- through lymphatic spread
- by traversing blood vessels and then haematogenous dissemination
spinal cord compression due to mets
surgery for lung mets (metastases)
referral criteria from primary care - suspected metastatic (mets) spinal cord compression (MSCC)