Metastatic Cancer

Metastasis is the development of secondary malignant tumors away from the primary cancer site. Metastatic cancer, also known as a metastatic tumor, has migrated beyond its original site of origin, or where it began, to other parts of the body. 

Doctors frequently use the word "metastasized" to describe cancer that has spread to other parts of the body; thus, your healthcare provider may refer to it as advanced cancer or stage 4 cancer. 

Advanced cancer, on the other hand, isn't always metastatic; certain types are called advanced when they're large but haven't progressed beyond the initial site.

Alternate Name

Stage IV (4) Cancer

Associated anatomy

Some of the most common places for cancer to spread are:

• Brain
• Bones
• Lungs
• Liver

Metastasis Signs and Symptoms

Some persons with metastatic cancer will have no symptoms or only minor symptoms. The site of the metastasis determines whether or not there are cancer symptoms. The following are some of the general signs and symptoms of advanced and metastatic cancer:

• Loss of energy and/or feeling fatigued and/or weak: This can become so severe that you may find it difficult to perform simple activities such as showering or dressing. People with advanced cancer frequently require assistance with these tasks.
• Weight loss (without trying)
• Pain
• Breathing difficulties or shortness of breath
• Depending on the type of cancer and where it has progressed, advanced and metastatic tumors can cause many additional symptoms.

Metastasis Causes 

Metastases can occur in the following ways:

• They can grow directly into the tissue around the tumor.
• Cells can move via the bloodstream to distant regions.

Cancer cells can also move to the pleural cavity, which is the lining that surrounds the lungs. It can also spread to the peritoneal cavity, which is the region around the belly button. Malignant pleural effusion and malignant ascites occur when cancer cells cause fluid to build up in these locations.

Metastasis Treatment

The survival and proliferation of invasive tumor cells must be controlled for anti-metastasis therapy to be effective. MMP inhibitors have been demonstrated to be ineffective in this regard. Bevacizumab and trastuzumab are two treatments that have shown potential. When combined with chemotherapy, bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody against VEGF, has been demonstrated to improve disease-free survival in patients with metastatic colon cancer. Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody to the HER-2 antigen, which is expressed by some early-stage breast cancer cells and is be effective in HER-2 positive metastatic breast cancer. In the treatment of metastatic bone lesions, denosumab (an anti-RANK antibody) and bisphosphonate are also being investigated. Both of these claims are based on limited evidence.

Risk Factors

• Older age
• Family history
• Tobacco use
• Obesity
• Alcohol
• Some viral illnesses, such as the human papillomavirus
• Carcinogenic chemicals
• Radiation exposure, especially ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun

Typical Tests

Laboratory tests that examine samples of blood, urine, or other fluids, and imaging procedures that create pictures of the inside of the body, are frequently used to diagnose metastatic cancer.

These lab tests are sometimes used by clinicians to screen for tumor markers. Specific compounds produced by cancer cells or other cells can assist detect the existence of cancer in your body. Tumor markers are the name for these compounds.

Some tumor markers, such as the ones listed below, can be used to assess whether cancer has spread.

• Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for colorectal and some other cancers.
• CA-125 for ovarian cancer
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) for liver, ovarian, and testicular cancers.

  Imaging examinations may also aid in the detection of metastatic cancer. Using various procedures, doctors can observe the inside of various regions of the body during imaging exams. The following are some examples of common imaging tests:

• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Ultrasound Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Stages Expected Prognosis

Metastatic cancer is seldom treatable. Treatment can retard the progression of cancer and alleviate many of the symptoms. Even after cancer has spread, several forms of cancer can be lived with for several years. Melanoma and colon cancer are two types of metastatic cancer that can be treatable.

Natural Progression

The life expectancy of a patient with extensive metastases or lymph node metastasis is fewer than 6 weeks. The life expectancy of a patient with brain metastases varies from 1 to 16 months, depending on the number and location of lesions and the specifics of treatment.

Treatment and Care

The primary treatment for metastasis is based on the cancer's originating site. If a person has breast cancer and it spreads to the liver, it is still treated with the same medications as breast cancer because the cancer cells have not altered; they are simply residing in a different location.

The majority of metastatic cancers can be treated. The goal of treating metastatic cancer is frequently to control it by delaying or preventing its progression. Some persons with well-controlled metastatic cancer can live for years. Other treatments, such as palliative care, relieve symptoms and may help to enhance the quality of life. It can be given at any time throughout cancer treatment.

Your treatment options depend on the type of primary cancer you have, where it has spread, previous treatments you've received, and your overall health.

• Stage I: Cancer has been contained to a small location and has not spread to the lymph nodes or other tissues.
• Stage II: Cancer has progressed but not spread.
• Stage III: Cancer has progressed to the point where it has spread to lymph nodes or other tissues.
• Stage IV: (affected organ system) cancer
• Metastasis or Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other organs or parts of your body at this stage. Treatment options for stage 4 cancer may help contain cancer and improve pain, other symptoms, and overall quality of life. For stage 4 malignancies, systemic pharmacological treatments such as targeted therapy or chemotherapy are prevalent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1: Are there oncologists in Mumbai who specialise in treating metastatic cancer?

Absolutely. Mumbai is home to several expert oncologists adept at treating metastatic cancers. The highly qualified and experienced oncological experts at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, are committed to achieving the best outcomes for all patients with metastatic cancers. The Institute of Cancer Care boasts of a multidisciplinary approach (surgery, chemotherapy & radiation therapy) to the management of metastatic cancers. The aim is to improve survival rates, reduce morbidity, and preserve the quality of organs, function & fertility and life, whenever possible, without compromising cure.

2: How can I pinpoint a distinguished cancer institution in Mumbai for metastatic cancer therapy?

For individuals scouting for esteemed cancer facilities in Mumbai tailored for metastatic malignancies, here are some strategies:

Digital Research: A simple online search can yield results showcasing leading institutes of cancer care in Mumbai.

Professional opinions: Healthcare professionals often have networks that can guide you to renowned institutes of cancer care in Mumbai.

Patient advocacy networks: These patient support groups can provide first-hand recommendations based on patient experiences.

When vetting these institutes of cancer care, it's pivotal to gauge the collective experience of the team, their treatment proficiency, patient testimonials, available amenities, and the centre's overall reputation.

3: Does Mumbai offer auxiliary services for metastatic cancer sufferers and their kin?

Certainly. Mumbai extends an array of ancillary services tailored for metastatic cancer patients and their families. From therapeutic counselling, curated support circles, palliative care regimens, to dietary consultations and rehab programs, these offerings are designed to uplift the holistic well-being and life quality of patients and their close ones.

4: What's the financial burden of metastatic cancer therapy in Mumbai?

Metastatic cancer treatment costs in Mumbai can differ based on numerous factors. Nature of the malignancy, it's stage, required treatment modalities, duration, and the healthcare institution's reputation all play a role in determining the cost. For a nuanced cost appraisal, direct discussions with Mumbai's healthcare entities are advisable.

5: Is undergoing metastatic cancer therapy in Mumbai painful?

The pain quotient associated with metastatic cancer therapy depends on factors like the malignancy's type, metastatic progression, and individual pain thresholds. Mumbai's healthcare paradigm places a significant emphasis on holistic pain management. By leveraging an array of medications — ranging from basic pain relievers to potent opioids — combined with holistic therapeutic interventions, Mumbai's healthcare system is committed to enhancing patient comfort and overall life quality.