METACHRONOUS COLORECTAL LIVER METASTASIS

Abstract

Deaths related to colorectal cancer are generally associated with its metastases that affect the liver (50%) through the hematogenous route. Approximately 20–25% of these patients already have synchronous metastases in the liver at the time of primary tumor diagnosis. In others, liver metastases will occur during the course of the disease and are called metachronous. Metachronous metastases are believed to have a better prognosis; however, 20–25% of metastatic cases can be resected during the course of the disease. There is a lack of consensus on the diagnostic time interval for metastases to be considered metachronous in the consulted literature. Surgical treatment of metastases and lymph nodes is indicated, and extrahepatic neoplastic disease must be carefully evaluated. Liver transplantation can benefit the patient, should be evaluated, and is indicated in some special situations.