Tumor Markers and Genetic Changes

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Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of an ideal tumor marker?

It should not change with treatment effects.

It must be produced by different types of tumors.

It must be specific to a particular type of cancer. (correct)

It should only be present in healthy individuals.

Which of the following statements best describes the major clinical value of tumor markers?

They can help determine the prognosis and monitor treatment responses. (correct)

They are useful for developing new treatment protocols.

They exclusively provide information about benign tumors.

They are primarily used for identifying tumor mutations.

Which tumor is commonly associated with the marker CA-125?

Lung cancer

Ovarian cancer (correct)

Breast cancer

Colorectal cancer

What is an example of a limitation of using tumor markers in clinical practice?

Markers may be elevated in non-cancerous conditions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following markers is most closely associated with prostate cancer?

PSA Signup and view all the answers

What is a collection of identical cells that work together in a defined structure called?

Tissue Signup and view all the answers

How do cells within a tissue typically differ from each other?

They have different functions due to different lineage. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of tissues in an organism?

To contribute to the overall structure and function of the organism. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about tissues is true?

Tissues consist of various types of cells with specialized functions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these best describes the relationship between cells and tissues?

Tissues are aggregates of cells that share functions and lineage. Signup and view all the answers

Which gene is primarily involved in promoting normal cellular division?

Proto-oncogenes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of proto-oncogenes?

Promoting apoptosis Signup and view all the answers

What role do tumor suppressor genes play in cellular processes?

They inhibit normal cell division Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a product of proto-oncogenes?

Growth hormones Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following functions is NOT typically associated with proto-oncogenes?

Inducing senescence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of annual PSA screening in men over 50 years old?

To detect early signs of prostate cancer Signup and view all the answers

Who should consider undergoing PSA screening at a younger age?

Men with a family history of prostate cancer Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of PSA makes it a valuable tool in prostate cancer screening?

It is a sensitive and accurate indicator of prostate cancer Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a recommended action for PSA screening based on the provided information?

Screen all men regardless of age Signup and view all the answers

In what situation is PSA screening considered to be more critical?

In men with a family history of prostate cancer Signup and view all the answers

What effect can a digital rectal examination have on plasma PSA concentrations?

It may slightly and transiently increase PSA concentrations. Signup and view all the answers

In which condition can a significant increase in plasma PSA concentrations occur?

Prostatitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between acute urinary retention and plasma PSA levels?

It can lead to a significant increase in PSA levels. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding PSA concentration changes?

Transitional increases in PSA can also occur due to prostatitis. Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario is least likely to result in an increase in plasma PSA concentrations?

Routine blood donation Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Characteristics of an Ideal Tumor Marker

An ideal tumor marker has high sensitivity and specificity, meaning it can accurately detect the presence of cancer and differentiate it from other conditions.
The ideal marker should also be easily measurable and non-invasive, allowing for convenient testing.
It should be present in high levels in individuals with cancer and low levels in those without cancer.
The ideal tumor marker should be specific to a particular type of cancer to avoid false positives.

Major Clinical Value of Tumor Markers

Tumor markers aid in early cancer detection, facilitating timely intervention and improving treatment outcomes.
They help stage the cancer and predict prognosis, informing treatment decisions.
During treatment, tumor markers monitor the effectiveness of therapy and detect recurrence.

Types of Genes Targeted by Genetic Changes

Proto-oncogenes: promote normal cell division, but mutations can turn them into oncogenes that drive uncontrolled growth.
Tumor suppressor genes: inhibit cell division, but inactivation or mutation can lead to uncontrolled growth.

Proto-oncogene Products

Proto-oncogenes produce proteins crucial for normal cell function.
These proteins include:
- Growth hormones
- Growth hormone receptors
- Signal transduction molecules
- Cell cycle progression proteins
- DNA transcription factors

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

PSA is a clinically valuable tumor marker for prostate cancer.
Annual screening is recommended for men over 50 years old and younger men with a family history of prostate cancer.
Digital rectal examination can temporarily elevate PSA levels.
Significant PSA elevation can occur in acute urinary retention and prostatitis.

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Description

This quiz explores the characteristics of ideal tumor markers, their clinical value in cancer detection and management, and the types of genes affected by genetic changes. Understand how these markers improve diagnosis and treatment strategies in oncology.