Metastatic cancer occurs when cancer cells spread from a primary site to another organ or system. Symptoms vary depending on the location and progression of the disease, but may include pain, respiratory issues, and neurological symptoms. Regular scans may be necessary to detect metastases.
Metastatic cancer occurs when cancer cells from a primary infection attack another organ or system. The condition is often diagnosed through tests, but it can cause some noticeable symptoms. The symptoms of metastatic cancer will depend on how far the disease has progressed and the location of the secondary cancer infection.
When symptoms of metastatic cancer occur, it’s because a primary cancer has spread throughout the body. Therefore, a person who has ovarian cancer that spreads to the liver will be referred to as having metastatic ovarian cancer, rather than having both ovarian and liver cancer. Whether the cancer is metastatic is determined by examining the cancer cells at the secondary site; if they originated in a different organ, it is due to metastatic cancer.
One of the most recognizable metastatic cancer symptoms occurs when the cancer has spread to the bones. This can result in intense pain and increased susceptibility to breaks and fractures. Symptoms can be localized to one area or felt throughout the entire skeletal system.
Metastatic cancer systems related to the brain include an increase in headaches and dizziness. People can lose their sense of balance and may experience optical blackouts or brief periods of disorientation. In some cases, memory loss, speech impairment, and even personality changes can occur.
If a secondary cancer grows in the lungs, the most obvious metastatic cancer symptoms may be respiratory in nature. Shortness of breath is an important sign that a tumor is hampering lung function. People with a history of lung disease or heavy smokers may not necessarily notice these symptoms or may attribute them to other causes.
In many cases, people who have already undergone treatment for cancer, such as chemotherapy or radiology, may not necessarily notice symptoms. Because many primary cancer treatment programs are hard on the body to begin with, the appearance of pain, nausea, or other symptoms of metastatic cancer may be indistinguishable from existing reactions to treatment. For those with undiagnosed cancer, symptoms can be brushed off as a simple cold or flu, or general ill health, if symptoms occur.
Throughout the body, any appearance of a lump or hardened section of skin can be a cause for concern for metastatic cancer. Patients already diagnosed with a primary disease may undergo periodic scans and checkups to determine if metastases may be occurring. Because in many cases there are no symptoms of metastatic cancer, these scans may be the only way to get a clear picture of a progressing disease. Scans are usually done through the use of X-ray, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests.
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