Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Nursing Practice Test

What are the most common sites for metastases in renal cell cancer?

1. Brain and lung

2. Skin and liver

3. Lymph nodes and bone

4. Breast and pancreas

The correct answer is: Lymph nodes and bone

Renal cell cancer (RCC) is known for its patterns of metastases, which typically occur in specific sites due to the tumor's biological behavior and vascular connections. The most common sites for metastases in renal cell cancer include the lungs, bones, liver, and lymph nodes. Focusing on lymph nodes and bones, these areas are particularly common for RCC metastasis due to their rich blood supply. The lymphatic system can facilitate the spread of cancer cells to nearby lymph nodes, and once the cancer has disseminated to the lymph nodes, there’s a higher likelihood it will spread further, including to the bones. Bone metastasis is also a frequent occurrence, as RCC has a propensity to spread to hard tissues. In contrast, while the brain and lung are potential metastatic sites, they are not as common as lymph nodes and bone, especially in early-stage detection. Skin and liver, as well as breast and pancreas, are not traditionally associated with renal cell carcinoma metastasis, which helps clarify why those options are less likely. Understanding these patterns of spread aids healthcare professionals in monitoring and anticipating complications in patients diagnosed with renal cell cancer.