Disease progression of colorectal cancer

Cancer cells have the potential to spread from their original location to other parts of the body where they can grow into new tumours. This process is called metastasis. The tumours are also called metastasis (singular) or metastases (plural). Metastases are also called secondary tumours.

Understanding the usual progression of cancer helps the doctor to predict its probable course, plan treatment and anticipate further care.

The most common sites where colorectal cancer spreads are:

• directly through the colorectal wall into nearby tissues, such as other parts of the colon next to the affected part, or other organs that are very close to the affected part of the colon
• through the lymphatic system to nearby lymph nodes
• through the bloodstream to distant organs, including:
  • liver
  • lungs
  • bones
  • brain
  • ovaries (in women)