Bone metastasis occurs when cancer cells spread from their original (primary) site to the bones. It is a common complication in advanced stages of cancer and can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life. Cancers such as breast, prostate, lung, kidney, and thyroid cancer most frequently metastasize to the bones.
What Is Bone Metastasis?
Bone metastasis is not a type of bone cancer; rather, it is secondary cancer that has spread to the bone from another organ. Cancer cells travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and settle in bone tissue, where they disrupt normal bone remodeling processes. This can lead to weakened bones, pain, and fractures.
Common Sites of Bone Metastasis
Bone metastases most commonly affect:
Spine
Pelvis
Ribs
Skull
Long bones of the arms and legs
The spine is particularly vulnerable, and metastasis here can sometimes compress the spinal cord, leading to neurological complications.