Where Does Metastatic Prostate Cancer Spread To?
Prostate cancer that has metastasized, or spread, beyond the prostate is known as stage 4 or metastatic prostate cancer. Stage 4 prostate cancer may spread locally, staying within the pelvic region, or it can spread to more distant areas of the body. While this form of cancer can travel to any organ in the body, there are specific areas where it most commonly occurs.
Local metastatic prostate cancer
Localized stage 4 prostate cancer may occur in any of the organs in the pelvic area, including the bladder and rectum. However, it is typically found in the nearby lymph nodes.
Distant metastatic prostate cancer
Distant metastatic prostate cancer is more advanced, having spread to areas outside the pelvic region. The most common distant places where prostate cancer spreads include the:
- Bones
- Lymph nodes
- Lungs
- Liver
Less commonly, prostate cancer may spread to the adrenal glands, kidneys, brain, pancreas or another organ. It is important to note that it is still considered prostate cancer when it spreads to other regions, as the cancer cells in distant areas are the same as the original cancer cells in the prostate gland, even if the prostate gland was previously removed. A biopsy may be recommended to confirm this.
Receiving treatment for prostate cancer that has spread
At Moffitt Cancer Center, the experts within our Urologic Oncology Program treat patients with all stages of prostate cancer, including advanced-stage cancers that have metastasized to other areas of the body. Our multispecialty team collaborates as a tumor board, ensuring each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to his unique needs. For individuals with metastatic prostate cancer, treatment plans aim to alleviate symptoms, slow the rate of cancer growth and shrink tumors to help improve quality of life.
Medically reviewed by Monica Chatwal, MD.
If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, whether early stage or late stage, you can find the treatment you require at Moffitt. We welcome patients with or without a referral to fill out a new patient registration form or call 1-888-663-3488 to schedule an appointment.