Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Metastatic Lung Cancer?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Metastatic lung cancer is cancer that originates in the lungs, and then spreads, causing the development of secondary tumors in other areas of the body. Globally, lung cancer is extremely common and it is a leading cause of cancer death in no small part because it can be very aggressive and may metastasize before it is identified or in spite of treatment. Management of metastatic lung cancer requires addressing the primary and secondary cancers with a variety of treatments with the goal of stopping and shrinking the growth.

From the point of view of the cancer, the lungs are an excellent place to establish. They are supplied by a rich network of blood vessels, making it very easy for cancers to spread throughout the body from the lungs. Some common sites for metastatic lung cancer include lymph nodes close to the lungs, the bones, the liver, the adrenal gland, and the brain. Patients with metastatic lung cancer can experience a variety of symptoms including shortness of breath, hormone imbalances, and neurological problems, depending on where the cancer has spread.

Smoking is closely associated with lung cancer.
Smoking is closely associated with lung cancer.

In a patient suspected of having any kind of cancer, medical imaging studies are used to look for tumors. These can include studies with contrast materials to highlight structures in the body. If abnormal growths are spotted, a biopsy sample is taken to find out what kinds of cells are involved. With multiple growths in different parts of the body, part of the goal is to find out where the cancer originated, as different cancers require different approaches to treatment.

A human respiratory system.
A human respiratory system.

No matter where the cancer is located, if it contains lung cells, it is considered a lung cancer. Patients with metastatic lung cancer may be advised to have surgery to excise tumors, along with undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. The prognosis varies, depending on the precise type of cancer and the extent of the spread. Generally, the more advanced the cancer, the worse the prognosis, especially if it has penetrated into the brain.

A computed tomography (CT) scan is often used to determine the extent of lung cancer.
A computed tomography (CT) scan is often used to determine the extent of lung cancer.

When patients are diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer, they will be given information about the type and stage of the cancer. This information is used to develop a treatment plan. Patients may want to ask an oncologist for a complete rundown of all their treatment options, including no treatment. The doctor should provide information about what to expect from treatment and the estimated prognosis. For patients who opt not to treat advanced cancers, referrals to hospice care are available to manage pain and discomfort.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Smoking is closely associated with lung cancer.
      By: Николай Григорьев
      Smoking is closely associated with lung cancer.
    • A human respiratory system.
      By: pixelcaos
      A human respiratory system.
    • A computed tomography (CT) scan is often used to determine the extent of lung cancer.
      By: Pavel Losevsky
      A computed tomography (CT) scan is often used to determine the extent of lung cancer.
    • The prognosis for metastatic lung cancer varies depending on the extent of the spread.
      By: edbockstock
      The prognosis for metastatic lung cancer varies depending on the extent of the spread.
    • Fatigue and depression can be early signs of lung cancer.
      By: prudkov
      Fatigue and depression can be early signs of lung cancer.
    • In some cases, lung cancer that metastasizes to the brain can be fatal within weeks or months.
      By: WavebreakmediaMicro
      In some cases, lung cancer that metastasizes to the brain can be fatal within weeks or months.
    • The prognosis of metastatic lung cancer varies depending on the type of cancer.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      The prognosis of metastatic lung cancer varies depending on the type of cancer.