1. Health

Ovarian Cancer: Metastasis

From , former About.com Guide

Updated May 30, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: When ovarian cancer cells break off of the ovary and spread to other parts of your body, the ovarian cancer is said to have metastasized. Ovarian cancer most commonly spreads to the lymph nodes or inside your belly to the internal lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) or to the outside of your bowel or intestines. More advanced or aggressive ovarian cancer can spread to the liver and lungs.
Pronunciation: mah-tas-tah-sis
Also Known As: metastases (plural)
Examples:
When ovarian cancer spreads to the liver, it is known as metastatic ovarian cancer, not liver cancer.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.