C79.9: Secondary malignant neoplasm, unspecified site

Secondary malignant neoplasm, unspecified site, is a medical term that describes a type of cancer that has spread from its original (primary) location to another part of the body. This process is known as metastasis. So, when you hear this term, it means that cancer cells have broken free from the primary tumor and traveled, usually through the bloodstream or lymph system, to form new, or 'secondary', tumors at an unspecified location in the body. The symptoms experienced by the patient may vary widely depending upon where this secondary tumor is located, and it might demonstrate a significant influence on the individual's overall health prognosis. This condition typically indicates an advanced stage of cancer. It's important to note that the cell type of the secondary neoplasm is generally consistent with the primary tumor. For instance, if breast cancer spreads to the lungs, the secondary tumor is still comprised of abnormal breast cells, and it's still termed as breast cancer, rather than lung cancer.