Which cancer does NOT commonly metastasize to the spine?

Study for the Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS) Clinical Case Exam. Use multiple choice questions and flashcards to enhance understanding, complete with hints and explanations. Ace your OCS exam!

Multiple Choice

Which cancer does NOT commonly metastasize to the spine?

Explanation:
Liver cancer is less commonly associated with metastasis to the spine compared to the other listed cancers. Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from the primary site to other areas of the body. While virtually any cancer can potentially metastasize to the spine, some are known to have a higher propensity for this type of spread. Breast cancer, for example, frequently metastasizes to the spine and can cause significant vertebral compression fractures and pain. Prostate cancer is also known for its tendency to spread to the spine, leading to complications such as spinal cord compression. Kidney cancer, although it may not be as common as the first two, can also metastasize to the spine, particularly when spread occurs late in the disease process. In contrast, liver cancer typically spreads via the bloodstream and is more commonly found in the lungs, peritoneum, and other organs rather than the vertebral column. Therefore, naming liver cancer as a condition that does not commonly metastasize to the spine is supported by the prevalence and patterns seen in metastatic disease.

Liver cancer is less commonly associated with metastasis to the spine compared to the other listed cancers. Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from the primary site to other areas of the body. While virtually any cancer can potentially metastasize to the spine, some are known to have a higher propensity for this type of spread.

Breast cancer, for example, frequently metastasizes to the spine and can cause significant vertebral compression fractures and pain. Prostate cancer is also known for its tendency to spread to the spine, leading to complications such as spinal cord compression. Kidney cancer, although it may not be as common as the first two, can also metastasize to the spine, particularly when spread occurs late in the disease process.

In contrast, liver cancer typically spreads via the bloodstream and is more commonly found in the lungs, peritoneum, and other organs rather than the vertebral column. Therefore, naming liver cancer as a condition that does not commonly metastasize to the spine is supported by the prevalence and patterns seen in metastatic disease.

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