Tumour Pathology 2 Flashcards
Name 4 properties of cancer cells.
1) Altered Genetics
2) Altered Cellular Function
3) Abnormal Morphology
4) Capable of independent growth
What are a cancer cells altered genetics?
Less tumour suppressor genes More oncogenes (transform normal cells to cancer cells.
What does Metastasis mean
The spread of cancer through the body to form a secondary tumour.
Explain the pathway of local metastatis.
tumour –> surrounding connective tissue –>lymph vessels or blood vessels.
Cancer spreading via the lympathic system?
Tumour –> lymph vessel –> lymph node –> forms metastasis (can be used for diagnosis)
Cancer spreading via blood?
Tumour –> blood –> forms metastasis
Trans coelomic spread?
This is a tumour spreading across body cavities.
This is seen in the stomach, colon, lungs, ovary.
How do cancer cells affect cellular function interms of adhesion?
loss of cell-cell adhesion
Change in cell- ECM adhesion
What are tumour biomarkers?
Tumour- related proteins, that if found during tests can tell if someone has cancer.
Does mitosis occur in cancer cells.
Mitoses present but it is often abnormal.
What does angiogenesis mean?
Cell growth.
What does tumour growth depend on?
A balance between angiogenesis and apoptosis
Describe tumour angiogenesis simply.
Tumours form blood vessels.
Sustains tumour growth, and provides route to release tumour.
What is the pleural cavity?
The space between the two membranes of the lung.
What is the peritoneal cavity?
The space between the two membranes that separate organs in the abdominal cavity from the abdominal wall.
