I'm concerned about prostate cancer metastasis. Where can prostate cancer spread?
Answer From Karthik Giridhar, M.D.
In theory, prostate cancer cells can spread anywhere in the body. In practice, though, prostate cancer metastasis occurs most often in the lymph nodes and the bones.
Prostate cancer metastasis occurs when cells break away from the tumor in the prostate. The cancer cells can travel through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream to other areas of the body.
More commonly prostate cancer metastasis can occur in the:
- Bones
- Lymph nodes
- Lungs
- Liver
Rare locations of prostate cancer metastasis include:
- Adrenal glands
- Brain
- Breasts
- Eyes
- Kidneys
- Muscles
- Pancreas
- Salivary glands
- Spleen
If you've been diagnosed with prostate cancer and you're concerned about prostate cancer metastasis, talk with your doctor about your risk of prostate cancer metastasis and your treatment options.
With
Karthik Giridhar, M.D.
Show References
- Vinjamoori AH, et al. Atypical metastases from prostate cancer: 10-year experience at a single institution. American Journal of Roentgenology. 2012; doi: 10.2214/AJR.11.7533.
- Gandaglia G, et al. Distribution of metastatic sites in patients with prostate cancer: A population-based analysis. The Prostate. 2014; doi:10.1002/pros.22742.
- Prostate cancer: Stages and grades. Cancer.net. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/prostate-cancer/stages-and-grades. Accessed Feb. 28, 2021.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/expert-answers/prostate-cancer-metastasis/FAQ-20058270