Cancer Biology Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What defines a benign neoplasm?

It is a solid tumor that does not metastasize. (correct)

It can spread to other parts of the body.

It has uncontrolled cell proliferation.

It grows rapidly and invades surrounding tissue.

During which stage of carcinogenesis does a normal cell begin to transform into a malignant cell?

Metastasis

Progression

Initiation (correct)

Promotion

Which of the following is a characteristic of cancer cells?

They lack angiogenesis.

They undergo cell hypertrophy.

They do not proliferate.

They resist apoptosis. (correct)

Which type of gene is primarily responsible for the regulation of the cell cycle?

Proto-oncogenes Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used for the spread of cancer cells to other locations in the body?

Metastasis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tissues typically undergoes rapid cell division?

Skin cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of tumor suppressor genes like p53?

To inhibit cell proliferation Signup and view all the answers

What defines the progression stage of carcinogenesis?

Development of angiogenesis Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'M' in the TNM staging system represent?

Presence of metastasis Signup and view all the answers

Which grade of cancer is characterized by cells that resemble normal cells and are not growing rapidly?

Grade 1 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of secondary prevention in cancer?

To detect cancer at an early stage Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the purpose of tertiary prevention in cancer management?

To prevent the recurrence of disease Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Grade 3 cancer cells?

Resemble normal cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of chemoprevention in cancer treatment?

To prevent the development of cancer Signup and view all the answers

Which type of surgical procedure is performed primarily to relieve symptoms without attempting to cure the disease?

Palliative surgery Signup and view all the answers

How is 'Tis' categorized in the TNM staging system?

Carcinoma in situ Signup and view all the answers

What factor does chemotherapy primarily target to inhibit cancer cell proliferation?

DNA synthesis Signup and view all the answers

Which lifestyle change is considered a primary prevention method for cancer?

Avoiding sun exposure Signup and view all the answers

Which range of N indicates no evidence of disease in the lymph nodes?

N0 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential side effect of chemotherapy?

Alopecia Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common sign for early detection efforts in cancer screening?

Change in bowel habits Signup and view all the answers

What is a common risk associated with neutropenia in cancer patients undergoing treatment?

Risk for infection Signup and view all the answers

During which stage of cancer treatment is debulking surgery most commonly performed?

Before chemotherapy Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a method to ensure safety while handling chemotherapy agents?

Minimizing exposure via skin contact Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of malignant tumors compared to benign tumors?

Malignant tumors can spread through blood and lymph vessels. Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of cancer classification indicates that cancer is localized with no spread?

Stage 0 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about benign tumors is true?

Benign tumors usually cause localized effects. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common effect associated with malignant tumors?

Rapid cell growth. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using biologic response modifiers in cancer treatment?

To stop or slow the malignancy process Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tumor types is associated with a higher likelihood of causing death?

Chondrosarcoma Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic distinguishes malignant tumors from benign tumors in terms of recurrence after removal?

Malignant tumors tend to recur after removal. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of bone marrow transplantation involves using the patient's own cells?

Autologous Signup and view all the answers

In what instance is granulocyte transfusion indicated?

For granulocytopenia Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tumor classifications does NOT belong under connective tissue tumors?

Papilloma Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential psychological impact on cancer patients related to their condition?

Grieving related to anticipatory loss Signup and view all the answers

What are the general systemic effects associated with malignant tumors?

Weakness, anemia, and weight loss. Signup and view all the answers

What nursing management concern should be prioritized for patients experiencing altered nutrition due to nausea?

Ensure adequate hydration Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is indicated by impaired skin integrity in cancer patients?

Erythematous/wet desquamation skin reaction Signup and view all the answers

What is the nursing management focus for cancer patients experiencing fatigue?

Promoting sleep hygiene and rest Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of radiation therapy?

To destroy a cancer cell’s ability to grow and multiply Signup and view all the answers

What is the risk associated with altered immunologic response in cancer patients?

High risk for infection Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a method used in brachytherapy?

Implant of solid materials as seeds Signup and view all the answers

What acute side effect is commonly associated with radiation therapy within six months of treatment?

Nausea and vomiting Signup and view all the answers

Which precaution should be taken when caring for a patient receiving brachytherapy?

Use absorbent shielding between the source and caregiver Signup and view all the answers

What chronic side effect can occur more than six months after undergoing radiation therapy?

Fibrosis and obstruction in internal organs Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions should be avoided during radiation therapy caring for the skin?

Wearing tight-fitting clothes Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary nursing interventions for managing an extravasation during chemotherapy?

Use an antidote to prevent tissue necrosis Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is particularly relevant following treatment for uterine cancer?

Intracavitary brachytherapy Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Oncology Overview

Oncology is the branch of medicine focusing on tumors.
A tumor is any abnormal swelling, lump, or mass.

Cancer Cell Characteristics

Cancer cells divide uncontrollably and invade nearby tissues.
Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body via the blood and lymphatic systems.

Benign vs. Malignant Neoplasms

Benign neoplasm: A slow-growing tumor that doesn't invade other tissues or form metastases. (Resembles normal cells)
Malignant neoplasm: A rapidly growing tumor that invades surrounding tissues and spreads to other parts of the body (metastasizes). (Does not resemble normal cells)

Cancer Pathophysiology

Normal cell division follows a sequential pattern called the cell cycle.
Mitosis is the cell growth phase involving cytoplasmic and nuclear separation, resulting in identical daughter cells.
Cancer development involves the initiation, promotion, and progression of abnormal cell growth.
Cancer development can be influenced by genetic changes, carcinogens (chemicals), viruses, hormones, and other factors.
Cancer cells proliferate (multiply), invade surrounding tissue, infiltrate, and spread to other locations via lymph and blood vessels (metastasis).

Cancer Cell Characteristics (Continued)

Uncontrolled cell proliferation (division)
Resistance to apoptosis (programmed cell death)
Inducing angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels )
Invasion and metastasis
Loss of function

Carcinogenesis

Initiation: carcinogen invades and changes the DNA of a normal cell
Promotion: prolonged exposure to a carcinogen and cell proliferation
Progression: morphology changes and angiogenesis
Metastasis: spread of cancer to other parts of the body

Cancer Classification (Continued)

Different tissues/organs have different forms of cancer (e.g., epithelial tumors, connective tissue tumors, blood vessel tumors, muscle tumors, blood-related tumors, etc.)
Examples: Papilloma (benign epithelial tumor), squamous cell carcinoma (malignant epithelial tumor), Fibroma (benign connective tissue tumor), Fibrosarcoma (malignant connective tissue tumor), Leukemia (malignant blood tumor)

Cancer Staging

Clinical staging classifies cancer by stages (0-IV) determining the extent of the disease.
Stage 0: Cancer in situ (early stage)
Stage I: Tumor limited to the tissue of origin (localized tumor growth)
Stage II: Tumor has grown and spread to some extent locally.
Stage III: Extensive local and regional spread
Stage IV: Metastasis (cancer spread to other parts of the body)
TNM system is frequently used (T=tumor size, N=node involvement, M=metastasis)

Cancer Grading

Cancer grading describes the appearance of cancerous cells under a microscope.
Grading grades cancer cells based on their resemblance to normal cells and ability to grow. (Grade 1 cancer cells closely resemble normal cells, whereas Grade 3 cancer cells look more abnormal and grow and spread more aggressively).
Grade 1 considered least severe and grade 3 is more severe.

Risk Factors for Cancer

Age
Exposure to chemical carcinogens
Exposure to ionizing radiation
Hereditary predisposition
Viral and bacterial infections
Hormonal imbalances
Immune system dysfunction
Diet

Cancer Prevention

Primary prevention: Making lifestyle changes, avoiding exposure to carcinogens, getting genetic counseling/testing, and using vaccines for cancer prevention.
Secondary prevention/early detection: Performing regular screening tests.
Tertiary prevention: Preventing recurrence of disease (e.g., health counseling).

Warning Signs of Cancer

Significant change in normal bowel habits
Sores that don't heal
Unusual bleeding/discharge
Thickening/lump in breast, testicle, or other body parts
Difficulty swallowing
Noticeable/sudden change in mole or wart appearance
Persistent cough or hoarseness

Cancer Diagnosis

Health history and physical examination
Laboratory investigations
Tumor markers or genetic markers
Radiologic studies
Radioisotope scans
Procedures like sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy
Biopsy (needle biopsy, incisional biopsy, or excisional biopsy)

Cancer Management

Treatment type, stage, and malignancy are considered when choosing cancer treatment.
Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy.
Surgical treatment can be debulking, curative, or palliative.

Chemotherapy

Treatment using anticancer drugs interfering with cell functions and reproduction
Treatment may be combined with surgery, radiation to reduce tumor size (typically before surgery)
Goals of chemotherapy are cure, control, and palliation (relief of symptoms)

Chemotherapy Administration Routes

Oral (capsule, tablet, liquid)
Intravenous (IV - push or infusion)
Intramuscular
Intraperitoneal
Subcutaneous
Topical

Chemotherapy Safety Precautions

Personal safety measures to minimize exposure via skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion
Safe disposal of antineoplastic agents, body fluids, and excreta

Chemotherapy Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Hair loss
Mucositis
Diarrhea
Anemia
Neutropenia
Thrombocytopenia
Other potential side effects in various organ systems requiring assessment by a nurse

Radiation Therapy

Used to destroy cancer cells' ability to grow and multiply using high-energy ionizing radiation.
Used to cure or control cancer, usually in target areas
Types: Teletherapy (external beam radiation) and Brachytherapy (internal radiation implantation)
Can involve interstitial or intracavitary radiation procedures

Radiation Therapy Side Effects

Acute side effects (during/within 6 months of treatment): Fatigue, skin reactions, gastrointestinal issues, oral mucositis, cardiovascular issues, pulmonary problems, renal issues.
Chronic side effects (after 6 months of treatment): Fibrosis, skin darkening, obstruction/ulceration/adhesion of various organ tracts, increased risk of infection, xerostomia, taste alteration, pulmonary fibrosis, renal fibrosis, etc.

Nursing Roles for Radiation Patients

Maintaining optimal skin care for patients (avoid lotions, rubbing, tight-fitting clothes, ensure proper skin care as directed by healthcare professionals.)
Ensuring protection for healthcare providers from radiation exposure (use shielding, stay at a safe distance from the patient).
Monitoring for complications (dislodged implants, etc.)
Providing support and comfort for patients facing challenges like body image concerns

Other Treatment Modalities

Immunotherapy (modifying the body's biological/immunologic response to stop the malignancy)
Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) (used for hematologic cancers)
Gene Therapy (correct genetic defects by inserting a desired gene into the target cell)
Blood component therapy (e.g., granulocyte transfusion for granulocytopenia)
Additional heat to tumor to destroy it in conjunction with radiotherapy (hyperthermia)
Pain management
Palliative care, including psychosocial/psychological care

High risk of infection
High risk of injury (e.g., bleeding problems)
Impaired skin integrity (e.g., erythema, desquamation, alopecia)

Prevention of infection
Prevention of bleeding
Minimizing fatigue
Minimizing stomatitis
Promoting nutrition
Supporting/improving body image (coping mechanisms)
Management of extravasation (in the case of leaking chemotherapy agents)

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Description

Test your knowledge on cancer biology concepts, including the characteristics of benign and malignant neoplasms, stages of carcinogenesis, and the role of various genes in cancer development. This quiz covers key terms and principles essential for understanding cancer mechanisms and prevention strategies.