Metastatic: meaning, definitions and examples
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metastatic
[ˌmɛtəˈstætɪk ]
Definition
medical terminology
The term 'metastatic' refers to the spread of cancer cells from the place where they first formed to another part of the body. This process involves the movement of malignant cells through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to establish new tumors. Metastatic cancer is often more difficult to treat than cancer that remains localized. The diagnosis of metastatic disease typically indicates a more advanced stage of cancer, and it requires a more comprehensive treatment approach due to its ability to invade different tissues.
Synonyms
disseminated, invasive, spreading.
Examples of usage
- She was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.
- The doctors are treating her metastatic disease with chemotherapy.
- Metastatic lesions were found on her liver.
- He explained that metastatic cancer can affect any organ.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek 'metastasis,' meaning 'to change position' or 'to move.'
- It is used in medicine to describe how cancer cells move away from the original tumor.
Medical Science
- Not all cancers are metastatic; it depends on the type of cancer and how aggressive it is.
- Common metastasis sites include the lungs, liver, bones, and brain.
- Treatment options may include surgery, radiation, and systemic therapies like chemotherapy to manage metastasis.
Psychology
- The diagnosis of metastatic cancer can lead to a wide range of emotional responses including fear, sadness, and anxiety.
- Support groups often play a critical role in helping patients cope with the psychological impacts of a cancer diagnosis.
Pop Culture
- Movies and shows sometimes dramatize the battle against metastatic cancer to highlight the struggles patients face.
- Many documentaries raise awareness about metastatic cancers and the necessity for research funding.
Statistics
- Approximately 50% of cancer patients will develop metastatic disease during their lifetime.
- Survival rates drastically vary depending on the original type of cancer and the location of the metastasis.
Translations
Translations of the word "metastatic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 metastático
🇮🇳 मेटास्टैटिक
🇩🇪 metastatisch
🇮🇩 metastatik
🇺🇦 метастатичний
🇵🇱 metastatyczny
🇯🇵 転移性の
🇫🇷 métastatique
🇪🇸 metastásico
🇹🇷 metastatik
🇰🇷 전이성의
🇸🇦 نقلي
🇨🇿 metastatický
🇸🇰 metastatický
🇨🇳 转移性
🇸🇮 metastatski
🇮🇸 meinvörpandi
🇰🇿 метастаздық
🇬🇪 მეტასტატიკური
🇦🇿 metastatik
🇲🇽 metastásico