Embolic tumor cells are cancerous cells that have broken off from a primary tumor and traveled through the bloodstream to other parts of the body. The word "embolic" is pronounced /ɛmˈbɑːlɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. It is derived from the medical term "embolism," which refers to the obstruction of a blood vessel by an embolus. "Tumor" is pronounced /ˈtuːmər/, with the stress on the first syllable. Together, "embolic tumor cells" describe a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Embolic tumor cells refer to cancer cells that have detached from the site of origin and have entered the bloodstream or lymphatic system to travel to distant parts of the body. These cells, known as emboli, are typically carried through the bloodstream to various organs or tissues, where they can become lodged and give rise to new tumor growths called metastases.
Unlike primary tumors that arise in a specific organ or tissue, embolic tumor cells are considered secondary tumors because they have spread from their original source. The ability of cancer cells to invade and metastasize is a hallmark of malignant tumors.
Embolic tumor cells can evade the body's immune system and travel to distant sites due to various factors, including genetic mutations, tumor angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels to supply nutrients), and mechanical factors aiding detachment and movement. These cells can travel long distances and colonize in organs such as the lungs, liver, brain, or bones.
The presence of embolic tumor cells in the bloodstream or lymphatic system is often detected through imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans. Understanding the mechanisms that facilitate the movement and colonization of these cells is crucial in developing strategies to prevent or treat metastatic disease.