Understanding Prostate Cancer Metastasis: Risk Factors & Gleason Scores

Prostate cancer, like any other form of cancer, can metastasize (spread to other parts of the body). However, according to the National Cancer Institute, if you have a low-grade prostate cancer it will probably grow and metastasize slowly.

Gleason Scores

• Prostate cancers are given a Gleason Score. Gleason Scores run from 2 to 10 and indicate whether the cancer is a slow-growing variety or an aggressive type that will metastasize quickly.

Low Grade

• A Gleason Score of 2 to 4 is given to low-grade cancers. These cancers tend to develop and spread slowly.

Intermediate Grade

• Cancers in the 5 to 7 range are considered intermediate grade. According to the Merck Manual, scores of 6 and 7 are most common.

High Grade

• A Gleason Score of 8 to 10 is assigned to high-grade prostate cancers. These tumors can spread rapidly.

Active Surveillance

• Older men who have a low Gleason Score and no troubling symptoms may be advised to take an "active surveillance" approach. Some doctors choose the option of regular, follow-up testing because surgery and radiation have not been shown to extend the lives of older patients.

Caution

• The Merck Manual stresses active surveillance may not be appropriate for younger men because even a slow-growing cancer could cause problems in the future.