Cancer that aggressively spreads and invades healthy tissues within the body, encompassing various types. Discovers treatments and additional details.
In the realm of cancer, two terms that often cause concern are invasive and metastatic cancers. These terms refer to the progression and spread of cancer cells within the body.
Invasive Cancer
Invasive cancer, also known as infiltrating cancer, describes a type of cancer where cancer cells have broken through the initial tissue boundaries and invaded adjacent tissues. This local invasion is a hallmark of malignancy, distinguishing invasive tumors from noninvasive or in situ cancers.
Examples of invasive cancers include invasive bladder cancer, invasive breast cancer, and invasive melanoma. In the case of bladder cancer, the disease has spread from the lining of the bladder to the muscles of the bladder, making it invasive. In breast cancer, the cancer spreads into other areas of the breast or surrounding tissue.
Metastatic Cancer
Metastatic cancer, on the other hand, is cancer that has spread from the original (primary) site to distant parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Metastatic disease typically defines an advanced stage of cancer and often signifies a poorer prognosis.
For instance, in breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer refers to cancer cells detected in distant locations such as bones or lungs, regardless of the original breast tumor stage.
Survival Rates
The survival rates for various types of invasive cancers vary. For bladder cancer, the five-year average survival rates are: Localized - 69%, Regional - 37%, Distant - 6%. For breast cancer, the survival rates are: Localized - 99%, Regional - 86%, Distant - 28%. For melanoma, the survival rates for invasive melanoma that has regional spread are 66%, while the survival rate for distant spread, or metastasized melanoma, is 27%.
Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that affects a part of the male reproductive system. Over 90% of all cases start in the germ cells of the testicles. The 5-year survival rates for testicular cancer are: Localized - 99%, Regional - 96%, Distant - 73%.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States of America. In its early stages, it does not typically present with noticeable symptoms. Treatment for skin cancer can include radiation therapy, surgery, chemical peel, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and other drug therapy.
Lymphatic Circulatory System
The lymphatic circulatory system plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy fluid levels throughout the body. It collects excess fluids and filters the blood through lymph nodes.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for invasive cancers such as bladder, breast, and testicular cancers may involve chemotherapy, radiation, full or partial removal of the affected organ, or a combination of these approaches. The exact treatment a person will undergo will vary based on the type and severity of the cancer.
For those in treatment for invasive cancer, it is crucial to work with a doctor to determine how often they need medical appointments and to do their best to keep all appointments and follow treatments as prescribed. It is also important to contact a doctor if any side effects from treatment are noticed, as a doctor may be able to help cope with these side effects.
[1] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Invasive cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/what-is-cancer/types/invasive-cancer [2] American Cancer Society. (2021). Invasive cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/invasive-cancer.html [3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Invasive breast cancer. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/invasive-breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20374897 [4] American Society of Clinical Oncology. (2021). Invasive cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/general-info/invasive-cancer [5] American Cancer Society. (2021). Invasive lobular carcinoma. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/invasive-lobular-carcinoma.html
- Invasive breast cancer, like other invasive cancers, is a concern in the medical-conditions arena, as it signifies a progression of the initial cancer cells from the original site to other areas of the breast or surrounding tissue (health-and-wellness).
- Science has shown that metastatic breast cancer, characterized by cancer cells spreading to distant locations such as bones or lungs, is a later stage of breast cancer and often indicates a poorer prognosis (cancer).
- While progress has been made in the science and treatment of various cancer types, it's essential to prioritize regular check-ups, follow treatments as prescribed, and actively communicate any health concerns with healthcare professionals (health-and-wellness).
