Pathophysiology and Staging of Malignant Tumors

Flashcards covering key terminology, pathophysiology concepts, cancer staging systems, treatments, and specific tumor types based on the lecture notes.

Angiogenesis

The process where cancer cells secrete growth factors to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and capillaries, supplying blood flow and nutrients to the tumor.

In situ

The pre-invasive stage of cancer where dysplastic cells remain localized in one specific area, which can last for months or years.

Tumor Grading

A classification based on the degree of differentiation of malignant cells, ranging from Grade 1 (well-differentiated) to Grade 4 (undifferentiated cells varying in size and shape, highly malignant, and fast-progressing).

Cachexia

A systemic effect of cancer characterized by severe weight loss and tissue wasting where bones and ribs become visible due to increased demands on the body.

Bone Marrow Depression

A condition caused by cancer or treatments like chemotherapy and radiation that impairs bone marrow function, resulting in decreased production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Cytologic Test

A diagnostic test involving biopsies and pathology to examine tissues or cells to determine the presence and type of cancer.

Metastasis

The spread of malignant tumor cells from the primary site to distant sites via blood or lymphatic channels, where they lodge in a hospitable environment to form secondary tumors.

Seeding

The spread of cancer cells along tissue and fluid movements caused by mechanical or accidental interruption during surgery, diagnostic procedures, or excessive handling.

TNM Staging System

A cancer staging method based on the size of the primary Tumor (T), involvement of regional lymph Nodes (N), and the spread or Metastasis (M).

Carcinogenesis

The multi-stage process by which normal cells undergo irreversible changes to cellular DNA and are transformed into cancer cells.

Initiation

The first stage of carcinogenesis where initiating factors cause the initial irreversible changes in cell DNA.

Promoters

Factors in carcinogenesis that cause further DNA changes following initiation, eventually resulting in a malignant tumor.

Radiofrequency Ablation

A cancer treatment method that applies heat to destroy small tumors and surrounding tissues, used primarily in the lungs or liver.

Antiemetics

Medications administered to decrease or prevent vomiting triggered by chemotherapy's chemical stimulation of the brain's emetic center.

Remission

A state in cancer management where all signs and symptoms of the disease are completely absent.

Cancer Cure

A medical standard generally defined as a five-year survival period without cancer recurrence following diagnosis and treatment.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common form of skin cancer, characterized by persistent slow growth and a lack of pain or itching (pruritus).

Pruritic

A medical term referring to a condition or symptom characterized by itching.

Ovarian Cancer

A 'silent tumor' hidden in the peritoneal cavity that presents with vague early signs and is typically diagnosed late when it exerts pressure on the bladder or bowel.

CA 125

A specific tumor marker elevated in ovarian cancer and other conditions that is useful for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.

Malignant Brain Tumors

Cancerous space-occupying masses inside the skull that create pressure on brain tissue and remain confined within the central nervous system without metastasizing outside of it.