How cancer can spread?

As an expert in the field of oncology, I can explain the process of how cancer spreads. The process by which cancer cells leave the original tumor and form new tumors in different parts of the body is known as metastasis. Here's a detailed look at the steps involved in this process: 1. Local Invasion: Cancer cells can grow and invade the surrounding tissue, breaking down normal cells and structures. 2. Intravasation: The cancer cells then enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system. The lymph system is a network of vessels and glands that produce and carry lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells. 3. Circulation: Once in the bloodstream or lymphatic system, cancer cells can travel throughout the body. 4. Extravasation: The cancer cells exit the bloodstream or lymphatic system and enter a new tissue. 5. Colonization: The cancer cells multiply at the new site and establish a new tumor, drawing nutrients from the surrounding tissue and blood supply to grow. This process is complex and involves many factors, including the characteristics of the cancer cells themselves, the conditions within the tumor microenvironment, and the overall health of the individual.

This spread of cancer to a new part of the body is called metastasis. Cancer cells have to go through several steps to spread to new parts of the body: They have to be able to break away from the original tumor and enter the bloodstream or lymph system, which can carry them to another part of the body.