Pathology and Pathological Disorders

Cancer Pathology

Metastasis, or metastatic disease, refers to the spread of cancer cells from a primary site to distant organs or tissues, marking a critical stage in cancer progression and complicating treatment outcomes. Oncoviruses cancer-causing viruses such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) play a significant role in oncogenesis by integrating viral genes into host DNA and disrupting normal cellular regulation. Carcinogenesis, also known as oncogenesis or tumorigenesis, is the multistep transformation of normal cells into malignant ones, driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations. A key mechanism in this transformation is mutagenesis, the process through which stable genetic mutations are introduced, either spontaneously or via exposure to external mutagens like chemicals or radiation. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, mediated by caspases, normally removes damaged or unneeded cells; however, its disruption can lead to uncontrolled cell survival and tumor development. Together, these interrelated processes form the foundation of modern cancer biology and remain central to diagnostics, prevention, and the development of targeted therapies.