Patho/Pharm: Exam 3 Alterations in Male G/R Function (Ch. 31)

genital and reproductive

what is prostate cancer

a malignant tumor of the prostate gland, which are commonly adenocarcinomas

• most common non-skin cancer in men

what is the etiology of prostate cancer

it is unknown

what are risk factors associated with prostate cancer

• age: 65+

• family history

• african-american ethnicity

• consuming a high-fat diet

• obesity

• hormonal influence from testosterone that stimulates prostate cell growth

what is the pathogenesis of prostate cancer

genetic mutation of prostate cells → uncontrolled cellular growth → formation of malignant tumor over time → invasion into surrounding tissue → metastasis into bone and lymph notes (slow progression, but aggressive)

• hallmark of advanced prostate cancer

what are the clinical manifestations of prostate cancer

• early: asymptomatic

• over time, urinary symptoms: weak stream, urinary frequency, nocturia, difficulty starting urination

• advanced: bone pain in back and pelvis, weight loss, fatigue

what is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA)

used for early detection of prostate cancer to measure elevated PSA levels

what is the digital rectum exam (DRE)

palpates the surface of the prostate and checks for any irregularities or nodules

what is a prostate biopsy

confirms diagnosis and determines progression and type of cell to confirm proper treatment

what is the use of MRI, CT, or Bone scans

to determine if cancer is more extensive and how far it has spread

what is a gleason score

a system to grade the aggressiveness of prostate cancer based on how abnormal the cells look under a microscope:

• grade of a 6 = low-risk/slow-growing

• grade of 8-10 = high-risk/rapid-growing/aggressive

what are some treatments for prostate cancer

• active surveillance: monitor any changes due to slow-growing nature of prostate cancer

• aggressive types: radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy

what are some nursing considerations for those with prostate cancer

• monitor urinary function

• assess for bone pain

• monitor PSA levels

• manage treatment side effects

• provide emotional support

what should we educate patients about for prostate cancer

• importance of screenings

• reporting any urinary symptoms

• adhering to medications

• kegel exercises (tightening of pelvis muscles) after surgery

• healthy diet and weight