10 neoplasm RED FLAGS ! Flashcards
What are some general red flags that may indicate underlying health concerns?
- malaise
- fatigue
- unexplained weight loss
- fever of unknown origin
- night sweats.
What respiratory symptoms should raise concerns for further evaluation?
- hoarse voice
- persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
- breathlessness
- recurrent chest infections.
What gastrointestinal symptoms should prompt investigation for possible underlying issues?
- mouth ulcer or lump
- difficulty swallowing
- new onset of abdominal pain or discomfort
- persistent heartburn
- indigestion or acid reflux
- nausea or vomiting
- hematemesis (vomiting blood)
- bloating
- change in bowel habits or consistency
- rectal bleeding
- rectal pain
- tenesmus (feeling the need to pass stool even when the bowel is empty).
Why is unexplained weight loss considered a red flag?
it can be a sign of various serious underlying conditions, including malignancies.
When should persistent cough be considered a red flag?
A persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks should be considered a red flag, as it could indicate underlying respiratory or systemic issues that require further investigation.
What urinary symptom should raise concerns about potential underlying issues?
haematuria (blood in the urine)
What reproductive symptoms should prompt immediate evaluation?
- PV bleeding (bleeding between periods
- post-coital bleeding, or post-menopausal bleeding)
- scrotal swelling or lump in males.
What breast changes should warrant further investigation?
- discovering a lump
- thickening of breast tissue
- skin changes (such as dimpling)
- nipple discharge or bleeding.
Where can lumps occur that should be considered red flags?
Lumps anywhere in the body, including the breast, neck, axillary (armpit), inguinal (groin), or any other location
What types of bleeding should raise concerns for potential serious conditions?
Bleeding from sputum (coughing up blood), vomit, stools, urine, vaginal bleeding (PV bleeding), or bleeding from any other site
Why is bone or back pain considered a red flag?
it can be indicative of underlying bone involvement, metastasis, or other serious conditions
What skin changes should be monitored closely for potential malignancy?
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
- itching
- changes in a skin mole
Changes in skin mole is a skin red flag what might this change involve ?
changes in size, shape, color, itchiness, bleeding, or flaking
What neurological symptoms should raise concerns about potential underlying issues?
- headaches, especially those worsening in the morning or at night
- nausea
- vomiting
- changes in personality
- behavior
- decline in work or school performance
- focal neurological deficits (such as weakness or numbness)
- seizures.
What is an example of a known association that may increase the risk of developing certain cancers?
Down syndrome is associated with an increased risk of leukemia
