9 Neoplasm effects

Question 1

Give examples of the local effects that neoplasms can have ?

Answer 1

CUBID
1. compression of adjacent structures
2. ulceration at a surface leading to bleeding
3. Blocking tubes and orifices
4. Invasion direct and destruction of normal tissue

Question 2

What are some of the indirect systemic effects of neoplasms …

Answer 2

• paraneoplastic syndrome (release of hormones from tumour)
• reduced appetite
• cachexia (weight loss)
• malaise
• immunosuppression
• thrombosis

Question 3

What are paraneoplastic syndromes ?

Answer 3

rare disorders with complex systemic clinical manifestations due to underlying malignancy

Question 4

malignant tumours can often produce hormones leading to a paraneoplastic syndrome

Give examples of tumours that can do this

Answer 4

1. bronchial squamous cell carcinoma = PTH-like hormone
2. bronchial small cell carcinoma = ACTH or ADH

Question 5

miscellanous systemic effects of neoplasms….

Answer 5

1. neuropathies affecting brain/peripheral nerves
2. skin problems e.g. pruritus, abnormal pigmentation
3. fever
4. myositis
5. finger clubbing

Question 6

benign neoplasms of endocrine glands are well differentiated and so typically produce hormones.

Give an example of a benign neoplasm that does this

Answer 6

a thyroid adenoma produces thyroxine

Question 7

Hormonal effect of neoplasms ?

Answer 7

Tumors can produce hormones or hormone-like substances, leading to symptoms unrelated to the local presence of the tumor

Question 8

Give an example of a hormonal effect of neoplasm

Answer 8

Cushing’s syndrome from ectopic ACTH production in bronchial small cell carcinoma

Question 9

neurological effect of neoplasm ?

Answer 9

Autoimmune responses triggered by the tumor can lead to neurological symptoms

Question 10

hematologic effects of neoplasms can cause changes in …1… leading to conditions like ?

Answer 10

1 = blood clotting
* thrombosis
* disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)