40 Questions
What is defined as malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC)?
Compression of the spinal cord as a result of malignant disease
What is the typical cause of malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC)?
Extradural tumor compressing the thecal sac
How does associated edema exacerbate malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC)?
It exacerbates the compression on the spinal cord
What percentage of cancer patients does malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC) occur in?
5-10%
What are some potential consequences of established malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC)?
Paraplegia and urinary/faecal incontinence
How do symptoms of spinal cord compression typically develop?
Depending on the cause, they can develop quickly or slowly
What is the primary factor contributing to infarction of the spinal cord in malignant spinal cord compression?
Vascular compromise resulting from compression
Which type of tumor is least likely to cause malignant spinal cord compression?
Benign tumor
Which of the following is NOT a common symptom associated with increased intracranial pressure caused by brain metastasis?
Improved cognition
Which of the following is the most accurate regarding the relationship between age and seizures caused by brain tumors?
Seizures are more common in patients over 45 years old with brain tumors.
Which of the following is NOT a common focal neurological symptom associated with brain metastasis?
Improved sensation
Which of the following imaging tests is considered the gold standard for diagnosing brain metastasis?
MRI with contrast
Which of the following is a key role of neuro-oncology nurses in the management of patients with brain metastasis?
Symptom management and appropriate referrals
Which of the following is NOT a common manifestation of altered consciousness seen in patients with brain metastasis?
Increased alertness
Which of the following is NOT a common reason for additional imaging tests ordered in the workup of suspected brain metastasis?
To evaluate the patient's mental status
Which of the following is a key focus of nursing care for patients with brain metastasis?
Providing patient and family education
What are the three critical components of managing patients with metastatic brain tumors?
Non-chemotherapeutic and chemotherapeutic drugs, surgical techniques, and radiation
When is surgery typically performed for brain metastasis?
If it is likely to lead to greater relief of symptoms than other treatments
What type of cells do chemotherapeutic drugs primarily target in the treatment of brain metastasis?
Cancer cells that divide rapidly
What is the goal of radiation treatment when administered following surgical removal of a brain tumor?
To ensure no residual malignant cells remain in the tumor resection bed
Why is stereotactic radiosurgery preferred for treating certain brain lesions?
It can treat lesions that are not easily treated by surgery
In what scenario does surgery or stereotactic radiosurgery play a lesser role in treating intracranial metastatic tumors?
When there are more than four small tumors
What is one of the main advantages of stereotactic radiosurgery over traditional surgery for brain metastasis?
Noninvasiveness and fewer risks
What is a goal of treatment for brain metastasis?
To improve functioning and control the cancer within the brain
What is a common symptom associated with spinal cord compression?
Loss of sensation in the feet
What is a key indicator of a poor overall outcome for patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC)?
Progressive nature of systemic cancer
What is typically done to diagnose spinal cord compression?
Imaging tests like CT or MRI scan
What is the recommended standard of care for patients with possible spinal cord compression?
Immobilization of the spine and gentle mobilization along with physiotherapists
What should nurses focus on as part of the multidisciplinary approach in managing metastatic spinal cord compression?
Evaluation of functional capacity and home care needs
What is considered a common initial presenting symptom for metastatic spinal cord compression?
Pain
What kind of test may show bone growths called spurs that push against spinal nerves?
X-rays of the spine
Why is it important for patients and caregivers to report symptoms promptly?
To prevent further complications from delayed treatment
Which of the following is NOT a crucial aspect of emotional support provided by nurses for patients and carers?
Suggesting alternative therapies not supported by medical evidence
What is the ultimate goal for patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC)?
Discharge home and community palliative care referral
What is the NOMS framework used for in the treatment of metastatic spinal cord compression?
Helping clinicians direct treatment based on neurologic, oncologic, mechanical, and systemic factors
Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a potential treatment option for spinal cord compression in the text?
Antibiotics
What is the most common type of brain tumor?
Brain metastases
Which of the following cancers is NOT mentioned in the text as being likely to metastasize to the brain?
Ovarian cancer
What is the standard of care for small-cell lung cancer patients to prevent brain metastases?
Prophylactic cranial irradiation
Which of the following statements is true regarding the distribution of brain metastases, according to the text?
Different cancer subtypes tend to have different distributions within the brain
Explore the concept of Malignant Spinal Cord Compression (MSCC) which is the compression of the spinal cord due to malignant disease. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and management of MSCC arising from spinal metastases. Understand the different types of tumors and their impact on the spinal cord.
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