Rehab: Oncology

Cancer

A group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth due to gene changes affecting cell function.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another via blood or lymphatic vessels.

Radiation Therapy

A cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Chemotherapy

A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.

Immunotherapy

A treatment that boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer.

Hormone Therapy

A treatment that slows or stops the growth of hormone-dependent cancers.

Stem Cell Transplant

A procedure that restores blood-forming cells after chemotherapy or radiation.

Cancer-Related Fatigue (CRF)

Extreme fatigue experienced by 70-90% of cancer patients during treatment.

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)

A condition affecting around 38% of multi-agent chemotherapy patients, causing burning, tingling, and balance issues.

Lymphedema

Swelling due to impaired lymph fluid flow, often caused by cancer treatment.

Occupational Therapy (OT) Role in Oncology

To enable patients to achieve maximum physical, psychological, and social function in daily living.

PRISM Model

A comprehensive, integrative, education-based rehabilitation model for cancer care.

Neutropenic Precautions

Safety measures for patients with low white blood cell counts to reduce infection risk.

Graft vs Host Disease (GVHD)

A condition occurring after stem cell transplant, characterized by fever, rash, nausea, and jaundice.

Common Cancers Seen in OT

Including Breast, Lung, Brain, Prostate, Colorectal, Head and neck, Blood cancers.

Assessment Tools in OT for Cancer Patients

Includes Katz ADL Scale, KELS, A-One, Brief Fatigue Inventory, and various cognitive tests.

Psychological Impact of Cancer

Includes high rates of depression and anxiety, affecting various aspects of life such as work and social activities.

Energy Conservation Techniques

Strategies used to help cancer patients manage fatigue and maintain daily activities.