Tumour Pathology Flashcards
What is a tumour?
An abnormal growing mass of tissue with uncoordinated growth that continues after the removal of any stimulus which may have caused the tumour. It is an irreversible change.
What are the two types of tumours
Benign
Malignant/Cancer
Features of Cancer
Major cause of death
Incidence of specific types increasing
Genetic and enviromental factors important
Multi step process of development and progression
Features of Benign Tumours
Non invasive growth
No metastases
Cells similar to normal
Function similar to normal tissue
Features of Malignant Tumours
Invasive growth
Not encapsulated
Loss of normal function
Cells abnormal
Properties of Cancer Cells
Loss of tumour suppressor genes Gain of function of oncogenes Altered cell function Cells capable of independent growth Tumour biomarkers
Clinical Utility of Tumour Biomarkers
Screening
Diagnostics
Prognostics
Predictive
Tumour growth is a balance between what?
Angiogenesis and Apoptosis
cell growth and cell death
Tumour angiogenesis mechanisms
New blood vessel formation by tumours
Required to sustain tumour growth
Provides route for release of tumour cells into circulation
More blood vessels in a tumour equals poorer prognosis
Modes of spread of cancer
Local
Lymphatic
Blood
Trans-coelomic
Common sites of metastasis
Liver Lung Brain Bone - axial skeleton Adrenal gland Omentum
Uncommon sites of metastasis
Spleen
Kidney
Skeletal muscle
Heart
Local effects of benign tumours
Pressure
Obstruction
Local effects of malignant tumours
Pressure Obstruction Tissue destruction Bleeding Pain Effects of treatment
Systemic effects of malignant tumours
Weight loss
Secretion of hormones
Effects of treatment
Paraneoplastic syndromes
