Oncology Flashcards
(36 cards)
Oncology Definition
Study of cancer
Cancer Definition
When normal cells proliferate unchecked
and invade normal tissues
when apoptosis is interrupted or molecular signals for cell growth and proliferation continue unchecked
Benign Tumor
Discreteclusters of abnormal cells. Do not spread to other parts of the body.
Malignant Tumor
invade local tissues and can metastasize (spread) to other parts of body
Tumor Stage
size and spread
Tumor Grade
Pathologist Assessment
mitotic activity, vascular/lymphatic invasion,
cellular appearance, and nuclear characteristics
Lymphoma
Malignant lymphocytes
proliferate in lymph
tissues
Mast cell tumor
Most common malignant
skin tumors of dogs
Osteosarcoma
Bone cancer most often in middle-aged, large-breed dogs
Oral tumors
Most common is melanoma
Carcinomas
Tumors of epithelial tissues
Hemangiosarcoma
highly malignant cancer arising from cells that normally create blood vessels
Clinical Signs of Cancer
persistent swellings
Non-healing wounds
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Bleeding/discharge from orifices
Reluctance to exercise or lethargy
Persistent lameness or stiffness
Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
Tumor ABCs
Asymmetry
Border
Color
Diameter
Evolving
Labwork
CBC
Serum chemistry
Urinalysis
Imaging
thoracic rads
thoracic computed tomography (CT)
abdominal imaging - ultrasonography
T/F
Patients must be sedated for CT
True
T/F
Cytologic diagnoses correlate strongly with biopsy diagnoses
True
FNA
Fine Needle Aspirate
FNA supplies
22-gauge needle, 6- to 10-mL syringe,
and multiple slides
Primary goal of treatment in veterinary oncology
to maintain good quality of life for patient
Secondary goal of treatment in veterinary oncology
to prolong patient’s life
Surgery is best for
solitary masses that have not metastasized
beyond primary site
Radiation Therapy
Uses high-energy waves to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors