Cancer Flashcards
what is cancer
Tumors = mass of cells grown abnormally
cellular of benign tumour
Excessive cell growth but cells regain similar to original cell e.g. prostatic hyperplasia
Remains contained within tissue
cellular of malignant tumours (cancer)
Excess cells developing via rapid, uncontrolled proliferation
Abnormal organization for the tissue
Cells are different from normal cells, but decrease cell differentiation
Can invade nearby tissues and metastasize (spread)
What leads to this:
Occurs due to genetic mutations
Describe how the identified gene classes are thought to be involved in the development of cancer
- Proto-oncogenes
- Gene that codes for proteins that regulate normal cell growth
If genetic mutation occurs:
- turn into Oncogenes
- Allow unregulated cell growth and proliferation
- Allow certain chromosome amplificants (duplication of chromosome segment)
- Tumor suppressor genes
- Codes for proteins that:
- Slow or stop mitosis
- Initiate DNA repair
- increase immune destruction of cancer cells
- Trigger apoptosis (programmed cell death)
Outline some of the factors which increase the risk of cancer
Immunity changes
Chemical exposure (e.g. carcinogens)
Radiation exposure
Genetics
Describe the process of metastasis
Cancerous cells break away from original tumor site and spread to other tissues
Outline some of the generalized signs/symptoms of cancer
Fatigue: lack concentration, motivation, energy
Pain – terminal cases
Cachexia – weight loss, anorexia (loss of apetite)
Detection/diagnosis:
Scans – MRI, CT, PET
Tumor markers in blood: only some tumors produce this
Describe the various cancer treatments
-Surgery
-Chemotherapy:
non-selective cytotoxic chemicals, mostly effect cells that are more rapidly divide (cells more susceptible)
-Radiation – targets rapidly dividing cells
-Immunotherapy: enhance immune system for better defense
-Hormone therapy: for hormone dependent cancer
-Gene therapy: gene manipulation to promote normal gene function
