Neoplasia 5 Flashcards
Why can some cancers keep growing without anyone noticing and thus present very late?
Can anatomically grow in a place that is not near to many structures, hence growth doesnt affect the person
Which cancers are detected early?
- Breast
- Skin
- Testicular
- Vocal chords
What are the two effects of cancer on the colon?
- Obstruction
2. Perforation
Lung cancers affect the lung how?
Decreased area of lung–> Reduced lung function.
Infections can be 2ndary to obstruction
What are the effects of bladder and kidney malignancies?
Obstruction–> cant drain urine–> backward pressure–>kidney dysfunction–> build up of toxins & abnormal electrolyte balance
What is Cachexia? What is it caused by?
Weight loss- common in cancer
Mainly by increased TNF- increases metabolism
What are infiltrations in regards to cancer?
When a tumour mass invades other structures.
Can affect nerves causing loss of function
Motor- swallowing
Sensory- pain, loss of sensation
The presence of a haemorrhage within a tumour is a sign of malignancy. T/F?
True- has a heterogenous appearance
What are paraneoplastic features?
Changes not directly related to the tumour.
Eg
- Electrolyte disturbances- high calcium, low sodium
- Osteoarthrophaty- big fingers
- Unusual neurological symptoms
Two most important para-neoplastic features?
- Pyrexia
2. Skin rash
Tumours that stimulate a strong immune response have a worse prognosis. T/F?
False- better
Cancer patients are usually at risk of infection. T/F?
True
Two features of bone mets are?
- Pathological fractures
2. Calcium metabolism- high Ca
