Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are cancer cells that have detached from a primary tumor and entered the bloodstream or lymphatic system. As cancer progresses, some cells acquire the ability to break away from the original tumor site and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic vessels to other parts of the body, where they can form secondary tumors called metastases.

CTCs are considered a significant factor in cancer metastasis, as they are responsible for the spread of cancer from the primary tumor to distant organs or tissues. These cells possess certain characteristics that enable them to survive in the bloodstream or lymphatic system, including the ability to resist cell death, invade blood vessel walls, and adapt to new environments.

Detection and analysis of CTCs can provide valuable information about the presence, progression, and treatment response of cancer. Improved analysis of of CTCs with LICC can help with diagnosis, prognosis, and personalized treatment decisions. Researchers are actively studying CTCs to gain insights into cancer biology, identify potential therapeutic targets, and develop improved methods for early detection and monitoring of cancer progression.