What is Metastatic Colorectal Cancer?

Metastatic colorectal cancer is cancer that has spread from its original location in the large bowel (colon or rectum) to other parts of the body. When cancer metastasizes, the malignant cells spread to other parts of the body through the blood stream or lymphatic system. Colorectal cancer can be metastatic (spread to other organs) at the time of diagnosis, or following treatment. When cancer metastasizes, the malignant cells spread to other parts of the body through the blood stream or lymph system. Colorectal cancer most commonly metastasizes to the liver while the second most common sire is the lungs. About 80% of patients with stage IV colon cancer develop liver metastases. Cancer cells from colorectal tumors break off and travel from the intestines to the liver through the portal vein. In addition to the liver and lungs, colorectal cancer can also spread to the bones, ovaries, distant lymph nodes, and other parts of the body. Fortunately, metastatic colorectal cancer that is confined to the liver, lungs, or ovaries can sometimes be cured with surgery. Additionally, surgical procedures such as cryoablation (freezing), radiofrequency ablation (heating) and tumor embolization have improved the prognosis for patients that cannot be cured with surgery. Doctors commonly combine these procedures with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy to manage the disease.