If colorectal cancer spreads

Cancer cells can spread from the colon or rectum to other parts of the body. This spread is called metastasis.

Understanding how a type of cancer usually grows and spreads helps your healthcare team plan your treatment and future care. If colorectal cancer spreads, it can spread to the following:

  • nearby lymph nodes (the most common place where colorectal cancer spreads)
  • nearby tissues in the abdomen or pelvis
  • peritoneum
  • distant lymph nodes
  • kidneys
  • adrenal glands
  • liver
  • lung
  • bone
  • brain

Expert review and references

  • American Society of Clinical Oncology. Colorectal Cancer. 2017: https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/colorectal-cancer/view-all.
  • Brierley JD, Gospodarowicz MK, Wittekind C (eds.). TNM Classification of Malignant Tumours. 8th ed. Wiley Blackwell; 2017.
  • Wilkes GM . Colon, rectal, and anal cancers. Yarbro CH, Wujcki D, Holmes Gobel B, (eds.). Cancer Nursing: Principles and Practice. 8th ed. Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning; 2018: 51: 1423 - 1485.