Metastasis

The Kopec Law Firm provides this webpage to help you understand cancer, metastasis, and also potential medical malpractice claims.

Cancer is a complex disease characterized generally by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. These cells, unlike their normal counterparts, have undergone genetic mutations that disrupt their ability to regulate growth and division. Accordingly, to understand cancer, it’s essential to grasp the basics of cellular biology.  

The Cellular Basis of Cancer

Our bodies are composed of billions of cells, the fundamental units of life. Each cell contains DNA, the genetic blueprint that directs cellular functions. Normal cells grow, divide, and die in an orderly fashion. However, cancer cells defy these rules. Genetic alterations, such as mutations or chromosomal abnormalities, can transform normal cells into cancer cells. These rogue cells can proliferate indefinitely, forming tumors.  

Cancer Formation, Growth, and Spread (Metastasis)

Cancer typically begins when a single cell undergoes genetic changes. This abnormal cell starts to divide uncontrollably, creating a cluster of cells known as a tumor. Tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are noncancerous and do not spread. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, have the ability to invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant parts of the body through a process called metastasis.  

Metastasis is the hallmark of cancer and the primary cause of cancer-related deaths. Cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to reach distant organs. Once there, they can establish new tumors, compromising the function of vital organs.  

Common Cancers and Metastasis

The types of cancer are as diverse as the organs they originate from. Some common cancers include:  

• Breast Cancer: Often spreads to the lungs, liver, bones, and brain.  
• Lung Cancer: Can metastasize to the brain, liver, bones, and adrenal glands.  
• Colon Cancer: Frequently spreads to the liver, lungs, and brain.
• Prostate cancer: Commonly metastasizes to the bones, liver, and lymph nodes.

Cancer Staging and Survival Rates

Cancer staging is a system used to describe the extent of a cancer’s spread. It helps determine the best treatment options and predict prognosis. Stages typically range from 0 to IV, with higher stages indicating more advanced disease.  

Survival rates for cancer vary widely depending on the type of cancer, stage at diagnosis, and treatment received. Advances in cancer treatment have significantly improved survival rates over the years.  

Medical Malpractice in Cancer Care

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional’s negligence causes harm to a patient. In the context of cancer care, malpractice claims can arise from various circumstances, including:  

• Delayed or missed diagnosis: Failure to detect cancer early can lead to its progression and metastasis with decreased chances of successful treatment afterward.  
• Misdiagnosis: Incorrectly diagnosing a condition can result in inappropriate treatment and subsequently harm to the patient.  
• Surgical Errors: Mistakes during cancer surgery can cause complications and affect the patient’s outcome.
• Radiation therapy errors: Incorrect dosage or targeting of radiation can lead to severe tissue damage.
• Chemotherapy errors: Improper administration of chemotherapy drugs can cause life-threatening side effects.  

If you believe you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice in cancer and metastasis, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in this area of law. We can assess the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, and help you pursue compensation for damages suffered.

Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.