Metastatic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆ
metastatic
[หmษtษหstรฆtษชk ]
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.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'metastatic'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'metastatic' originates from the Greek word 'metastasis', which means 'a change of position or state'. It is a combination of 'meta-', meaning 'beyond' or 'after', and 'stasis', which means 'standing' or 'staying'. Distinctly used in medical contexts, particularly in relation to cancer, the term became prominent in the late 19th century as medical professionals began to understand the process by which cancer spreads. Historically, the understanding of metastasis was gradual, with early observations leading to significant developments in oncology and treatment strategies. The term now broadly encompasses the mechanisms by which cancer cells migrate and form secondary tumors, playing a crucial role in cancer prognosis and therapeutic planning.