Basic Principles of Cancer Chemotherapy

Flashcards created from lecture notes on cancer chemotherapy, covering definitions and explanations of key terminology.

Cancer

Unregulated cellular proliferation characterized by persistent proliferation, invasive growth, formation of metastases, and immortality.

Oncogenes

Genes that, when activated, can lead to cancer due to unregulated cellular growth.

Tumor suppressor genes

Genes that help regulate cell growth; when inactivated, they can contribute to the development of cancer.

Growth fraction

The ratio of proliferating cells to resting G0 cells in a tissue; a high growth fraction indicates more responsive tissues to chemotherapy.

Cytotoxic agents

Drugs used in chemotherapy that directly kill cancer cells.

Myelosuppression

Bone marrow suppression caused by chemotherapy, leading to decreased blood cell production.

Neutropenia

Reduction in circulating neutrophils, increasing the risk of infection.

Thrombocytopenia

Reduction in circulating platelets, increasing the risk of serious bleeding.

Anemia

Reduction in circulating erythrocytes, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Combination chemotherapy

Using multiple drugs to enhance cancer cell kill, suppress drug resistance, and reduce toxicity.

Adjuvant analgesics

Medications that enhance the effects of opioids or treat side effects caused by opioids.

Anticipatory nausea

Nausea that occurs before chemotherapy based on past experiences.

Biosalivary therapy

Treatment strategies that involve the use of saliva in managing cancer pain or effects.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used for pain relief and inflammation suppression.

Antiemetics

Medications used to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting, especially from chemotherapy.

Infusion reactions

Adverse effects that occur during the administration of certain drugs, such as fever and chills.

Drug resistance

The ability of cancer cells to withstand the effects of a drug that once inhibited them.

Immune system participation

The role of the immune system in recognizing and eliminating cancer cells; often inadequate.

Palliative treatment

Care to relieve symptoms without curing the disease, often focusing on quality of life.

Cognitive behavioral modalities

Psychosocial interventions aimed at altering the patient’s perception of pain and coping mechanisms.