Cancer can cause organ damage through several mechanisms:
1. Direct Invasion: Cancer cells can directly invade and destroy normal tissues. For instance, a lung tumor can invade the bronchial tubes and affect breathing. 2. Metastasis: Cancer cells can spread from the primary site to other organs. For example, breast cancer can metastasize to the bones, liver, or brain. 3. Obstruction: Tumors can block essential pathways, such as bile ducts in liver cancer or the intestines in colorectal cancer. 4. Secreted Factors: Cancer can secrete enzymes, hormones, or other substances that damage tissues. For example, some cancers release cytokines that cause systemic inflammation.
