Genetics summary

Question 1

What is cancer?

Answer 1

Continued proliferation in cells due to mutations that enhance proliferation in genes that control cell birth or cell death.

Question 2

What is the difference between benign and malignant?

Answer 2

Benign- well differentiated cells; slow rate of growth, unable to suppress proliferation; fibrous capsule

Malignant- less differentiated, grow rapidly- loss of control over cell proliferation and differentiation- disorganised growth and metastasis (invade and infiltrate).

Question 3

What are seven warning signs of cancer?

Answer 3

Change in bowel or bladder habits
A sore that does not heal
Unusual bleeding or discharge from any body orifice
Thickening or a lump in the breast or elsewhere
Indigestion or difficulty swallowing
Obvious change in a wart or mole
Nagging cough or hoarseness

Question 4

What are the cancer classifications/grades?

Answer 4

Grade 1: cell differ slightly from normal cells and well differentiated

Grade II: cells are more abnormal and moderately differentiated

Grade III: cells are very abnormal and poorly differentiated

Grade IV: cells are immature and undifferentiated
Stage 0: cancer in situ
Stage I: tumour limited to the tissue of origin
Stage II: limited local spread
Stage III: extensive local and regional spread
Stage IV: metastasis

Question 5

Tumours that originate from bone, muscle and other connective tissues are called what?

Answer 5

Sacromas

Question 6

What is the general term for cancers that develop in the lymphatic system?

Answer 6

Lymphoma- a group of blood cell tumours

Question 7

What is a carcinoma?

Answer 7

A type of cancer that starts in cells that make up the skin or the tissue lining organs, such as the liver or kidneys