120 Questions
What is the main focus of the cell cycle?
Cell division and growth
What is the term for a group of like cells with the same structure and function?
Tissue
What is the term for an abnormal mass of cells that is not normal to the body but is noncancerous?
Benign tumor
What is the term for the time it takes for a tumor to double its size?
Doubling time
What happens to cells that leave the cell cycle and remain inactive until reentry into the cycle?
They continue to synthesize RNA and protein
What is the term for a dividing mass of cells that is mutated?
Neoplasm
What is the hierarchy of organization in the human body?
Cell, tissue, organ, system, individual
What is the term that combines the Greek words 'neo' and 'plasia'?
Neoplasm
What is the stance of the ACS on monthly breast self-examinations for women?
They are optional
What is the recommended age to start screening for colorectal cancer?
50 years old
What should be done if a test for colorectal cancer is positive?
Do a colonoscopy
What was the ACS's previous recommendation for men aged older than 50 years?
Annual digital rectal examination and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood testing
Why did the ACS withdraw its recommendation for routine screening for prostate cancer?
Routine screening has not been shown to prolong lives
What is a current area of focus in cancer research and identification?
Genetic testing and identification of persons at risk for cancer
What is the stance of the ACS on offering self-examinations instruction?
It is optional
What is the purpose of the ACS's recommended tests for colorectal cancer?
To find polyps and cancer
What is the main reason the author is taking a drug called tamoxifen?
To treat the symptoms of cancer
What is the only way to accurately identify a cancer?
Microscopic examination of a sample of suspected tissue
What is the author's attitude towards their prognosis?
Hopeful and optimistic
What is the purpose of a biopsy?
To confirm the presence of mutant cells
What is one way to deal with cancer, according to the author?
By becoming educated about the disease and its treatments
What is the name of the drug the author is taking?
Tamoxifen
What is one diagnostic tool used in detecting lung cancer?
X-ray examination
What is the author's approach to dealing with their cancer diagnosis?
Taking positive steps every day to enjoy the little things in life
How did the author feel before turning to God for help?
A nervous wreck
What was the author's physical condition like before the surgery?
The author felt nauseated and vomited every morning
What was the author's main concern before the surgery?
The potential impact on their daily life
What did the author do to cope with their emotions before the surgery?
Turned to God for help
How did the medical staff make the author feel during the testing process?
Like they were at the center of the care system
What did the author find encouraging during the testing process?
The fact that they were not alone
What was the outcome of the surgery?
The surgery was a success, and the author felt good physically
What was the result of the surgery?
The removal of the nerve
What is the main goal of surgery in cancer treatment?
To remove the entire tumor and follow up with chemotherapy or radiation
What is the significance of the TNM system in cancer staging?
It is used to determine the size and extent of the primary tumor, regional lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis
What type of cancer can be removed without any additional intervention?
Skin cancer
What is the purpose of debulking in cancer treatment?
To remove as much of the tumor as possible
What is the term for cancer that has not spread to neighboring tissue?
Carcinoma in situ
What is the main difference between T1, T2, T3, and T4 in the TNM system?
The size and/or extent of the primary tumor
What is the term for no regional lymph node involvement?
N0
What is the term for distant metastasis?
M1
What is a characteristic of benign tumors?
They have cells that are the same as the original tissue.
What is the term for a group of cells that grows out of control, taking over the function of the affected organ?
Cancer
What is the term used to describe the spread of a tumor from the primary site into separate and distant areas?
Metastasis
What is the significance of the term 'malignant' in oncology?
It means the tumor resists treatment and tends to worsen.
How do cancer cells acquire invasive behavior characteristics?
By changing the surrounding tissue
What determines the original tumor site of a metastatic tumor?
The cell characteristics of the original tumor site
What is the minimum size of a neoplastic growth that can be detected?
1 cm in diameter
What is the significance of finding lung tissue in the brain?
It suggests a primary lung tumor with metastasis to brain tissue
What is the primary function of an organ affected by cancer?
It ceases to function eventually.
What is the recommended age to start screening for cervical cancer?
Age 21
What is the term for the study of tumors and cancer?
Oncology
What is the recommended frequency for Papanicolaou testing for women aged 30 to 65?
Every 5 years with an HPV test
What is the term for a tumor that has not spread to neighboring tissue?
In situ tumor
What are the three steps in the formation of a metastasis?
Invade blood or lymph vessels, move by mechanical means, and lodge and grow in a new location
Why do some women choose not to be screened for cancer?
Due to fear of healthcare personnel and testing procedures
What is an important aspect of cancer education?
Teaching patients that cancer is not contagious.
What is the purpose of organizations like the American Cancer Society?
To provide education and support for cancer patients and families.
What is a common site of metastasis?
Lungs
What is the role of a nurse in promoting cancer screening?
Developing a trusting relationship and providing information
What is the result of the three steps in the formation of a metastasis?
The spread of cancer cells to a new location
What can a woman choose to do after age 65 if she has had three normal Pap tests in a row?
Stop screening
What is the recommended type of screening for women aged 30 to 65?
Pap test with an HPV test every 5 years
What is the recommended frequency for breast cancer screening for women with a high risk of breast cancer?
To be discussed with her doctor
What is the recommended age to start screening for breast cancer for women with an average risk?
Age 40
What is the primary purpose of a biopsy in cancer diagnosis?
To confirm the presence of mutant cells
What is the author's current approach to dealing with their cancer diagnosis?
Taking positive steps to enjoy life and becoming educated about the disease
What is one common diagnostic tool used in detecting lung cancer?
Chest x-ray examination
What is the author's current medication for cancer treatment?
Tamoxifen
What is the author's attitude towards their prognosis?
Optimistic
What is one common side effect of the medication tamoxifen?
Hot flashes and sweats
Why is a biopsy commonly done in an HCP's office or outpatient surgery department?
Because it is a quick and simple procedure
What is the author's approach to coping with their emotions during the cancer diagnosis?
Taking positive steps to enjoy life and becoming educated about the disease
What is the main use of PET scans in cancer diagnosis?
To detect the spread of cancers of the lung, ovaries, colon, rectum, and breast
What is the use of ultrasound in cancer diagnosis?
To help distinguish between benign and malignant breast tumors
What is the tumor marker associated with prostate cancer?
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
What is the purpose of endoscopic procedures in cancer diagnosis?
To allow the direct visualization of a body cavity or opening and biopsy tissue
What is the tumor marker associated with ovarian, cervical, liver, and pancreatic cancers?
CA 125
What is the main use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in cancer diagnosis?
To detect and stage malignant tumors in the central nervous system, spine, head, and musculoskeletal system
What is the tumor marker associated with colorectal, pancreatic, and hepatobiliary cancers?
CA 19-9
What is the use of PET scans in brain imaging?
To produce images of the brain
What is a potential health hazard for recent immigrants and visitors to Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland?
Industrial pollution and radiation exposure
Why are African American men at a higher risk for developing cancer related to their work?
They are more likely to engage in hazardous occupations
What is a characteristic of colon tumors in African Americans?
They are deeper, making detection more difficult
What is the difference in the 5-year survival rate between African Americans and European Americans?
30% lower
What is a common feature of cancer sites among African Americans?
They are more likely to occur in the prostate, breast, lung, colon, and rectum
Why do African Americans report later for cancer treatment?
They are more likely to delay seeking medical attention due to cultural or socioeconomic factors
What is a potential health risk for Eastern European immigrants?
Thyroid cancer and leukemia due to industrial pollution and radiation exposure
Why is it essential for HCPs to carefully screen individuals for certain cancers?
To identify cancer at an early stage
What is a common reason for delay in seeking treatment for cancer symptoms among Hispanic populations?
Lack of access to healthcare due to undocumented immigration status
What is an effective approach to educating Hispanic populations about cancer prevention and early warning signs?
Using bilingual healthcare providers and presenting educational materials in Spanish
What is a significant barrier to preventive healthcare among Hispanic populations?
Lack of access to healthcare due to high poverty rates
Why are many Hispanic Americans fearful of getting cancer?
Due to a lack of understanding of the early warning signs of cancer
What is a common occupation among Hispanic populations that may increase their risk of cancer?
Working in factories using chemicals
What is an effective way to educate Hispanic populations about cancer prevention and early warning signs?
Using respected Hispanic community leaders in educational programs
Why are many Hispanic Americans less likely to seek medical treatment for cancer symptoms?
Due to a fear of surgical intervention due to perceived risks
What is a common challenge in providing healthcare to Hispanic populations?
All of the above
What is the primary factor that determines the risk of cancer development when exposed to chemical carcinogens?
Both intensity and length of exposure time
Which of the following is a consequence of immune system suppression?
Malignant cells develop in large numbers
What is the consequence of altered immunity in individuals with chronic illness and stress?
Increased risk of cancer
Why are chemical agents, such as those in tobacco, more toxic when used with alcohol?
Alcohol has a synergistic effect with chemical agents
What is the association between smoking and lung cancer?
Smoking accounts for 90% of lung cancers in men and 80% in women
What is the consequence of a traumatic, stressful period in life, such as the loss of a mate or a job?
Increased risk of cancer
What is the effect of a healthy immune system on cancer formation?
It destroys malignant cells quickly
What is the significance of estrogen or progesterone dependence in breast tumor treatment?
It determines the treatment options
What is a significant barrier to cancer prevention in American Indian populations?
Lack of American Indian HCPs
Which virus is associated with Burkitt's lymphoma?
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
What is a key strategy for decreasing cancer risk in American Indian populations?
Encouraging traditional customs of physical fitness and exercise
What is the outcome of incorporating American Indian healing practices into cancer prevention efforts?
Improved cancer prevention outcomes
What is a common risk factor for cancer in American Indian populations?
High rates of alcohol consumption
What is the role of the Indian Health Service and Bureau of Indian Affairs in cancer prevention efforts?
Collaborating with tribal community leaders
What is a key strategy for promoting healthy eating habits in American Indian populations?
Providing education on healthy food preparation practices
What is the significance of working with tribal community leaders in cancer prevention efforts?
To develop culturally sensitive cancer prevention strategies
What is the primary purpose of a biopsy in cancer diagnosis?
To confirm the presence of mutant cells
What is the author's attitude towards their cancer diagnosis?
Optimistic and grateful
What is the role of radiological procedures in cancer diagnosis?
To detect cancer in hollow organs and bones
What is the author's approach to dealing with their cancer diagnosis?
Education and positive thinking
What is the significance of tamoxifen in the author's treatment?
It is a hormone therapy used to treat breast cancer
What is the author's current emotional state?
Calm and grateful
What is the primary benefit of staying involved in everyday activities, according to the author?
It makes it easier to deal with the disease
What is the significance of the author's statement, 'I am a survivor'?
It expresses their confidence in their prognosis
Study Notes
Cancer Screening and Diagnosis
- The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends monthly breast self-examinations as optional for women and testicular self-examinations as optional for men.
- The ACS also recommends one of the following options for screening for colorectal cancer starting at age 50:
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
- Colonoscopy every 10 years
- Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years
- Colonography (virtual colonoscopy using computed tomography) every 5 years
- Tests that mainly find cancer include:
- Fecal occult blood test every year
- Fecal immunochemical test every year
- If any tests are positive, a colonoscopy should be done.
Cell Cycle and Tumor Growth
- The cell cycle involves a series of changes through which a cell progresses, starting from the time it develops until it reproduces itself.
- Important concepts related to tumor growth and treatment strategies include:
- Duration of the cell's life
- Time it takes for mitosis to occur
- Growth ratio (percentage of cycling cells)
- Frequency of cell loss
- Doubling time (the time for a tumor to double its size)
- Cells can be actively dividing, leave the cycle after a certain point and die, or temporarily leave the cycle and remain inactive until re-entry into the cycle.
Types of Tumors
- A benign tumor is a cluster of cells that is not normal to the body but is noncancerous.
- The better defined or differentiated the tumor, the easier it is to treat.
- Malignant tumors resist treatment and tend to worsen and threaten life.
Cancer Treatment
- Surgery: can be curative when it is possible to remove the entire tumor.
- Radiation therapy: can be used to treat the remaining tumor cells.
- Chemotherapy: can be used to treat the remaining tumor cells.
Cancer Staging
- The TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) system is used to stage cancer.
- Primary Tumor (T):
- TX: Primary tumor cannot be evaluated
- T0: No evidence of primary tumor
- Tis: Carcinoma in situ (early cancer that has not spread to neighboring tissue)
- T1, T2, T3, T4: Size and/or extent of the primary tumor
- Regional Lymph Nodes (N):
- NX: Regional lymph nodes cannot be evaluated
- N0: No regional lymph node involvement
- N1, N2, N3: Involvement of regional lymph nodes (number and location of lymph nodes)
- Distant Metastasis (M):
- MX: Distant metastasis cannot be evaluated
- M0: No distant metastasis
- M1: Distant metastasis
Biopsy
- Accurate identification of a cancer can be made only by biopsy.
- Microscopic examination of a sample of suspected tissue or aspirated body fluid can confirm the presence of mutant cells.
- Biopsy is commonly done in an HCP's office or outpatient surgery department.
Radiological Procedures
- X-ray examination is a valuable diagnostic tool in detecting cancer of the bones and hollow organs.
- Chest x-ray examination is one diagnostic test used in detecting lung cancer.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- MRI is valuable in the detection, localization, and staging of malignant tumors in the central nervous system, spine, head, and musculoskeletal system.
Tumor Markers and Associated Cancers
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): hepatocellular cancer
- Cancer antigen (CA) 15-3: breast cancer
- CA 125: ovarian, cervical, liver, and pancreatic cancers
- Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA): colon and rectal cancers
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA): prostate cancer### Personal Experience with Cancer
- The author reflects on their personal experience with cancer, expressing relief at overcoming the worst part of the journey.
- They emphasize the importance of staying involved in daily activities and educating oneself about the disease and its treatments to cope with it.
- The author takes tamoxifen, a drug with side effects like hot flashes and sweats, but is grateful for a good prognosis and expects a complete cure.
Biopsy for Cancer Diagnosis
- Accurate identification of cancer requires a biopsy, which involves microscopic examination of a tissue or fluid sample.
- A biopsy can be performed in an HCP's office or outpatient surgery department.
- There are different types of biopsies, as shown in Figures 11.9 and 11.10.
Radiological Procedures for Cancer Diagnosis
- X-ray examinations are a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting cancer in bones and hollow organs.
- Chest x-rays are used to detect lung cancer.
Learn about the cell cycle, its stages, and how it relates to tumor growth, including benign tumors, and understand key concepts like duration of cell life, growth ratio, and doubling time.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
