Mr. Wang, 58 years old, came to the clinic with persistent cough, chest pain and low back pain. He has a long-term history of smoking and has recently had a worsening cough accompanied by significant weight loss. After a detailed examination, I regretfully told him that he had lung cancer that had metastasized to the bone.
Lung cancer metastasis is a complex process that involves cancer cells spreading to other sites through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. When lung cancer cells invade blood vessels or lymphatic vessels, they can travel with the bloodstream or lymphatic fluid to other parts of the body, where they continue to grow and multiply.
1. Where is lung cancer most likely to metastasize?
1. Liver: The liver is one of the most common metastatic sites of lung cancer. This is because the liver receives a large amount of blood flow from the lungs, making it easier for cancer cells to invade and grow within the liver.
2. Adrenal glands: The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys and are also common metastasis sites for lung cancer. This is also due to its abundant blood**, which makes it easy for cancer cells to spread here.
3. Bones: Lung cancer cells can also spread to bones, especially the thoracic spine, lumbar spine and pelvis. In this case, the patient may experience symptoms such as bone pain, fractures, etc.
4. Brain: Although relatively rare, lung cancer can also metastasize to the brain. In this case, the patient may experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, epilepsy, etc.
5. Lymph nodes: Lung cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system, such as the neck, mediastinum and other lymph nodes. This can lead to symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, compression of surrounding tissues, and more.
2. How to prevent and metastasize lung cancer
1. Quit smoking: Smoking is one of the main risk factors for lung cancer. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer and help prevent lung cancer metastasis.
2. Early screening: Regular lung examinations, such as low-dose spiral CT scans, can help to detect lung cancer early and carry out it in a timely manner.
3. Comprehensive**: For patients with lung cancer who have been diagnosed, comprehensive** is the key to improving survival and quality of life. This includes a combination of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeting**, and other methods.
4. Support**: For patients with advanced lung cancer, support** such as palliative radiotherapy, painkillers, etc., can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
5. Psychological support: In the face of cancer diagnosis and the most advanced process, patients and their families may feel anxious, fearful and depressed. Seeking psychological support and participating in cancer** organizations can help them better cope with these emotional issues. Healthy Wintering Program