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Abstract

Metastasis evaluation is a critical aspect of cancer diagnosis and treatment planning, as it determines the extent of disease spread beyond the primary tumor site. This comprehensive review delves into the various methods and technologies employed in metastasis evaluation across different cancer types. The assessment of metastasis involves a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and molecular imaging techniques. Histopathological examination of biopsy specimens remains the gold standard for confirming metastatic spread, with advancements in immunohistochemistry and molecular pathology enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Emerging technologies, including liquid biopsy and circulating tumor cell detection, offer minimally invasive approaches for monitoring metastatic progression and therapeutic response. Furthermore, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in metastasis evaluation is expanding, with machine learning algorithms demonstrating promising results in image interpretation and prognostication. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in accurately characterizing metastatic lesions, particularly in the context of tumor heterogeneity and treatment-induced changes. Standardization of metastasis evaluation protocols and integration of multi-omics data hold promise for improving precision medicine approaches in cancer management. This review provides insights into the current landscape of metastasis evaluation, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making in oncology. Metastasis evaluation remains a cornerstone in the prognosis and management of cancer patients, as metastatic spread significantly impacts treatment strategies and patient outcomes. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of metastasis evaluation, encompassing its biological mechanisms, clinical significance, and current methodologies utilized in its assessment. Metastasis, the process by which cancer cells disseminate from the primary tumor to distant sites within the body, is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by various genetic, molecular, and microenvironmental factors. Understanding the intricate mechanisms underlying metastasis is crucial for developing targeted therapies and improving patient survival rates.

The evaluation of metastasis involves a spectrum of approaches ranging from clinical imaging techniques to molecular profiling assays, each offering unique insights into the metastatic cascade. Conventional imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) play a pivotal role in detecting metastatic lesions and assessing disease burden. However, these methods often have limitations in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and the ability to detect micrometastases.