Metastasis: the deadly part of cancer

The most malignant characteristic of any cancer cell is the cell's ability to metastasize. The movement of the malignant cell from the primary neoplasm to a distant site, and the cell's subsequent growth there, is the most dangerous characteristic of any tumour cell. Metastatic development occurs via a series of complicated events. This article explores the stepwise process of metastatic spread, known as the 'metastatic cascade', highlights the organs commonly involved in metastatic spread, and debates the seed and soil hypothesis of metastasis. The nurse is introduced to the importance of recent medical research which highlights the genetic links identified in metastatic cell formation. Tumour suppressor genes and oncogenes, which are genes known to induce or promote cancer, and their implications for prognosis, are explained. Finally, the nurse's responsibility in maintaining his/her knowledge and understanding of metastasis in order that he/she may provide appropriate care and support for the patient and family is discussed.