The Rarity of Metastasis to the Spleen - a Phenomenon with an Unknown Mechanism

The review analyses the frequency of malignant tumors metastasizing to the spleen. The facts are presented of a higher frequency of metastasis to the spleen in the presence of multiple metastases to other organs and the extreme rarity of isolated metastases to the spleen. Despite the rarity of spleen metastases, their frequency varies depending on the nosological form of the malignancy. The data about clinical manifestations of spleen metastases and positive effects of splenectomy in these cases are presented. The hypotheses explaining the rarity of metastases to the spleen are analyzed. Emphasis is placed on the multiple immune functions of the spleen, including the development of immunogenesis and tolerance, and the possible role of these processes in inhibiting the development of spleen metastases. However, to date, there is no complete understanding of the mechanisms of spleen metastasis inhibition. The spleen is an area where antimetastatic microenvironment is naturally formed. Understanding of the mechanisms inhibiting the development of metastases in the spleen and underlying the failure of this function in cases where metastases do occur could arm oncologists with a new strategy to prevent metastasis to any organ. Targeted research in this field is required.