Cancer Biology and Pathology Quiz
48 Questions
5 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What genetic test is commonly available only for women with a strong family history of breast cancer?

  • BRCA1 (correct)
  • Ph chromosome
  • RB1
  • CML
  • What is a characteristic of the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome in the context of health?

  • It is an indicator of breast cancer.
  • It results from oncogenic virus activity.
  • It is commonly associated with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). (correct)
  • It signifies the presence of retinoblastomas.
  • During the viral replication process, what mechanism allows retroviruses to integrate their genetic material into the host's DNA?

  • Gene editing
  • Translation
  • Transcription
  • Reverse transcriptase (correct)
  • What condition is characterized by increased growth of granulocytes?

    <p>Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes oncogenic viruses?

    <p>Their replication can alter host cell genes, potentially leading to cancer. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common endocrine effect associated with hypercalcaemia?

    <p>Cushing’s syndrome (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is most likely associated with osteolytic bone lesions?

    <p>Multiple Myeloma (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of RANKL in the context of multiple myeloma?

    <p>Activates osteoclasts (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following symptoms is NOT a characteristic of hypercalcaemia?

    <p>Clubbing of the fingers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes cerebellar degeneration in relation to multiple myeloma?

    <p>Neurological impairment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key distinguishing factor between benign growth disorders and malignant diseases?

    <p>Benign disorders do not invade surrounding tissues. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic is true of malignant cells?

    <p>They often show uncontrolled proliferation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of malignant disease risk factors is incorrectly related?

    <p>High sugar intake directly causes breast cancer. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which mechanism is primarily responsible for malignant disease?

    <p>Activation of cancer-related genes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a typical clinical effect of a tumor?

    <p>Increased bone density at the tumor site. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach is commonly used for diagnosing malignant diseases?

    <p>Imaging such as X-rays and MRIs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In relation to treatment, which method is primarily focused on curing malignant disease?

    <p>Chemotherapy. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about the eukaryotic cell cycle is incorrect?

    <p>Mitosis occurs only in prokaryotic cells. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of mutations are associated with breast and ovarian cancer through BRCA1 and BRCA2?

    <p>Inborn zygotic mutations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is considered an environmental factor that may lead to cancer?

    <p>Viruses (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which genetic mutation is commonly associated with chronic myelogenous leukaemia?

    <p>Philadelphia chromosome (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the abnormal tissue microenvironment associated with cancer?

    <p>Hypoxia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which syndrome is linked to p53 mutations and an increased risk of cancers?

    <p>Li-Fraumeni syndrome (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors is not considered a risk factor for cancer?

    <p>Heart disease (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which gene is implicated in both breast cancer and ovarian cancer development?

    <p>BRCA1 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of cancer is associated with the mutation on chromosome 11p13?

    <p>Wilm’s tumour (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which virus is associated with cervical cancer?

    <p>Human papillomavirus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Burkitt's lymphoma is primarily associated with which virus?

    <p>Epstein-Barr virus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Aflatoxin is associated with which type of cancer?

    <p>Liver cancer (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a known risk factor for liver cancer?

    <p>Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cancer is linked to high consumption of red meat due to 'haem' pigment?

    <p>Stomach cancer (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cancer is most commonly associated with UV radiation exposure?

    <p>Skin cancer (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which virus is implicated in the development of liver cancer?

    <p>Hepatitis B and C viruses (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of cancer is commonly associated with Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)?

    <p>Lung cancer (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of cancer is commonly linked to Aspergillus flavus?

    <p>Liver cancer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary purpose of tumor markers?

    <p>To aid in screening at-risk populations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following tumor markers is associated with prostate cancer?

    <p>Prostate-specific antigen (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic is NOT associated with malignant tumor histology?

    <p>Decreased mitotic activity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which tumor marker is primarily used for diagnosing ovarian cancer?

    <p>CA-125 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a result of ISH positive in HER2 testing indicate?

    <p>HER2-targeted therapy like Herceptin may be prescribed (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the threshold level of PSA that is considered normal?

    <p>&lt; 4.0 ng/ml (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes an 'ideal' tumor marker?

    <p>Sensitive, specific, and easily detected (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main cellular change typically observed in Wilms tumor?

    <p>Hyperchromatic, enlarged nuclei (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of cancer is primarily associated with calcitonin as a tumor marker?

    <p>Medullary thyroid carcinoma (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in liquid biopsy?

    <p>They help in the assessment of tumor spread. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is true about the use of genetic testing in cancer treatment?

    <p>It can help determine the most advantageous treatment. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary clinical utility of tumor markers in cancer management?

    <p>To monitor therapy and recurrence (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which tumor marker is most commonly used for assessing pancreatic cancer?

    <p>CA19-9 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Mitosis

    The process by which cells divide and replicate to create two identical daughter cells.

    Meiosis

    A type of cell division that results in four daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

    Apoptosis

    A programmed process of controlled cell death that eliminates unwanted or damaged cells.

    Malignant disease

    An uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells, leading to the formation of a tumor.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Risk factors for malignant disease

    Factors that increase the likelihood of developing a disease, such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Aetiology of malignant disease

    The study of the causes and origins of diseases.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Clinical effects of tumors

    The effects of a disease on the body and its functions.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Diagnosis of malignant disease

    Methods and techniques used to identify and diagnose diseases.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome

    A specific genetic alteration involving chromosome 9 and 22, found in chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). It leads to the production of a fusion protein called BCR-ABL, which promotes uncontrolled cell growth.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)

    A type of leukemia characterized by an overproduction of white blood cells, specifically granulocytes, due to the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    BRCA1

    A tumor suppressor gene that plays a critical role in regulating cell growth and preventing uncontrolled cell division. Mutations in BRCA1 can increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    BRCA2

    A tumor suppressor gene that, like BRCA1, is involved in DNA repair and cell cycle regulation. Mutations in BRCA2 can also increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Retinoblastoma

    A type of cancer that affects the retina of the eye, often occurring in children. It is associated with mutations in the RB1 gene, which is a tumor suppressor gene.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Inborn Zygotic Mutations

    Changes in DNA sequence that are present from birth and are passed down from parent to child.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Somatic Mutations

    Changes in DNA sequence that occur after birth in a single cell and are passed on to subsequent daughter cells.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS)

    A rare, inherited syndrome caused by mutations in the p53 gene, leading to an increased risk of various cancers.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    p53

    A gene that functions as a tumor suppressor, controlling cell growth and preventing uncontrolled division.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Philadelphia Chromosome

    A specific chromosomal abnormality in CML, resulting from a translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Hypercalcemia

    A disorder characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Insulinoma

    A tumor in the pancreas that produces excessive amounts of insulin.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Cushing's Syndrome

    A condition caused by excessive production of cortisol, leading to a range of symptoms like weight gain, muscle weakness, and high blood pressure.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Multiple Myeloma

    Refers to a type of cancer affecting plasma cells in the bone marrow.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    RANKL

    A protein that promotes bone resorption, breaking down bone tissue.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    HPV and cervical cancer

    Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that can cause cervical cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    EBV and Burkitt's lymphoma

    Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a virus that can cause Burkitt's lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Hepatitis B and C and liver cancer

    Hepatitis B and C viruses can cause liver cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Aflatoxin and liver cancer

    Aflatoxin, a toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus, is a risk factor for liver cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    PAHs and Cancer

    Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemicals formed during the incomplete burning of organic materials. Exposure to PAHs can increase the risk of various cancers, including lung cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Red Meat and Stomach Cancer

    Red meat, containing 'haem' pigment found in red blood cells, is a potential risk factor for stomach cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    UV Radiation and Skin Cancer

    UV radiation, from the sun or tanning beds, is a major risk factor for skin cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Tobacco Smoke and Cancer

    Exposure to tobacco smoke is a significant risk factor for lung, stomach, esophagus and oral cancers.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    HPV and Genital Cancers

    Certain types of HPV infection are linked to cancers of the cervix, anus, penis, vagina, and vulva.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Alcohol Consumption and Cancer

    Alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, and colon.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Tumor marker

    A substance found in blood, urine, or tissue that is associated with the presence of malignancy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Loss of differentiation

    Loss of normal cell structure and function, leading to abnormal growth.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Loss of cellular cohesion

    Disruption of the normal connections between cells, allowing cancer cells to spread.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Histopathology

    The study of cells and tissues using a microscope, often involving staining techniques to highlight specific features.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Immunohistochemistry

    A type of laboratory test that uses specific antibodies to detect and quantify the presence of certain molecules in a sample.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Histochemistry

    A type of laboratory test that uses chemical reactions to detect and visualize specific molecules in a sample.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Electron microscopy

    A technique that uses electron beams to produce images of very small structures, such as cells and organelles.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Genetic testing

    A laboratory test that analyzes the genetic makeup of cells to identify mutations or other changes that may be associated with cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)

    A protein produced by the cells of the prostate gland, whose levels can be elevated in cases of prostate cancer.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    In situ hybridization (ISH)

    A type of laboratory test that uses fluorescent probes to detect specific DNA or RNA sequences in cells or tissues.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

    A type of laboratory test that uses antibodies to identify and quantify specific proteins on the surface of cells.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Liquid biopsy

    A technique that analyzes the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of circulating tumor cells or circulating tumor DNA.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Staging

    The process by which a patient's cancer is classified based on its severity and potential for spread.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Herceptin treatment

    A type of targeted therapy that uses drugs to specifically attack the HER2 protein, which can be overexpressed in some cancers.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Sensitivity

    The ability of a diagnostic test to correctly identify individuals with a specific condition.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Learning Outcomes

    • Distinguish between benign and malignant growths
    • Describe characteristics of malignant cells
    • Discuss the causes of malignant disease, linking risk factors to cancer types
    • Explain the mechanisms of disease
    • Understand the clinical effects of tumors
    • Evaluate approaches to diagnosis and treatment of malignant disease

    Learning Resources

    • Lakhani, S.R., Dilly, S.A., Finlayson, C.J. (2016). Basic Pathology: an introduction to the mechanisms of disease. CRC Press. (e-book recommended)
    • Weinberg, R.A. (2014). The Biology of Cancer. Garland Science. (Use other sources if these are not available)
    • Additional articles, journals, or websites may be needed for in-depth learning.

    Revision Reading

    • Chapter 16 (Eukaryotic cell cycle, mitosis, and meiosis) and Chapter 17 (Cell death) from Thrive in Cell Biology (2013) by Wang Q. et al. (Oxford University Press)
    • Moodle URL for e-book chapter on cancer cell biology

    What is Cancer?

    • Cancer affects multicellular organisms
    • Cancer is a cellular phenomenon where cells develop unusual properties
    • Cancer is a collection of diseases
    • The core characteristic of cancer is uncontrolled cell growth

    Characteristics of Malignant Cells

    • Loss of control over growth signals; insensitive to inhibitory signals
    • Resistance to apoptosis
    • Unlimited replicative potential (telomeres, telomerase)
    • Ability to induce angiogenesis
    • Ability to invade surrounding tissues
    • Ability to metastasize (spread to other areas)
    • Exhibits anchorage-independent growth, losing contact inhibition

    Causes of Cancer (Aetiology of Cancer)

    • Mutations (zygotic and somatic)
    • Environmental factors (viruses, chemicals, radiation)
    • Abnormal tissue microenvironment (blood/lymphatics, fibroblasts, immune cells, extracellular matrix, hypoxia etc.)
    • Age, lifestyle

    Genetic Mutations and Increased Risk of Cancer

    • Inherited mutations (e.g., BRCA1/2, Li-Fraumeni syndrome)
    • Somatic mutations (e.g., p53, CHK2) are common.
    • Specific mutations are linked to particular cancer types (e.g., Wilm's tumor, CML, retinoblastoma, colorectal cancer).

    Cancer Cell Characteristics: Loss of Contact Inhibition

    • Normal cells stop growing when they come into contact with other cells.
    • Cancer cells continue to grow even when in contact with other cells; thus, they ignore cell growth controls

    Cancer: Other Risk Factors

    • Alcohol consumption
    • Tobacco use
    • Infections (HPV, HBV, HCV)
    • Aflatoxin
    • Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
    • Red meat consumption and N-nitroso compounds
    • UV radiation
    • Body weight
    • Age

    Cancer Diagnosis

    • Physical examination
    • Screening (e.g., mammograms)
    • Imaging techniques (CT, MRI, PET, etc.)
    • Biopsies (for histopathology, immunohistochemistry, etc.)
    • Blood tests
    • Genetic Testing

    Tumor Markers

    • Substances in blood/tissue linked to cancer
    • Used in screening, diagnosis, staging, monitoring treatment, and detecting recurrence.
      • Common markers: Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), CA15-3, CA19-9, CA-125, Calcitonin, Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Myo D1, Prostate specific antigen (PSA), Synaptophysin

    Histogenetic Classification of Tumors

    • Classification based on tissue origin:
      • Carcinoma (epithelial tissue)
      • Sarcoma (connective tissue)
      • Leukemia & lymphoma, myeloma (hematopoietic)
      • Neuroectodermal malignancies, Teratoma (mixed tissue types)

    Clinical Effects of Tumours

    • General effects (e.g., fatigue, anorexia, fever)
    • Local effects (e.g., compression, obstruction)
    • Endocrine effects (e.g., hormonal imbalances)
    • Paraneoplastic syndromes (symptoms not explained by local or metastatic disease, e.g., hypercalcemia)
    • Cancer cachexia (wasting syndrome)

    Paraneoplastic Syndromes

    • Symptoms unrelated to tumor spread
    • Examples include hypercalcemia, Cushing's syndrome, clubbing of fingers, etc.

    Cancer Treatment

    • Surgery
    • Chemotherapy
    • Radiation therapy
    • Immunotherapy
    • Targeted therapy
    • Hormone therapy
    • Stem cell transplantation

    Management of Cancers

    • Based on cancer aggressivity, predictability of spread, patient morbidity/mortality, treatment cure rate, and patient survival rate
    • Measured as 5-year survival without recurrence

    Chemotherapy Agents

    • List of chemical agents

    Targeted Cancer Therapy

    • Using drugs/substances that halt cancer growth/spread
    • Interfering with specific cancer molecules
    • Also called molecularly targeted therapies or drugs
    • Tailored to patients' tumor characteristics

    Proton Therapy

    • Radiation treatment using protons
    • Can be used alone or with other therapies

    HPV Vaccine

    • Vaccination against HPV

    Multi-Step Cancer Progression

    • Different steps in the development and progression of cancers.

    Benign and Malignant Tumors

    • Benign tumors are generally localized, non-invasive, and do not metastasize
    • Malignant tumors tend to be invasive, and can spread

    Cancer Diagnosis Approaches

    • Typical clinical indicators (lump, unusual bleeding)
    • Screening procedures, tests and investigations
    • Imaging (CT, MRI, PET)
    • Biopsies
    • Laboratory tests
    • Tumor markers
    • Genetic testing

    Malignant Tumor Histology

    • Loss of differentiation
    • Loss of cellular cohesion
    • Nuclear enlargement
    • Increased mitotic activity

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Description

    Test your understanding of cancer biology by distinguishing between benign and malignant growths, identifying characteristics of malignant cells, and discussing the relationship between risk factors and cancer types. This quiz will also cover mechanisms of disease, clinical effects of tumors, and diagnosis and treatment approaches for malignant diseases.

    More Like This

    Malignant Disease MCQs
    13 questions

    Malignant Disease MCQs

    UnequivocalSarod5265 avatar
    UnequivocalSarod5265
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser