Cancer flashcards

Primary Cancer

Cancerous cells found in the tissue of origin

Primary cancer example

lung cancer cells found in the lung tissue

Secondary cancer (metastatic)

cancerous cells found in tissue other than tissue of origin

Secondary cancer (metastatic) example

lung cancer cells found in brain tissue

Diagnostic Tests for Cancer

Biopsy (definitive), colonoscopy, mammograms/self breast exam, pap smear, self testicular exam, skin exam, chest CT for those at high risk for lung cancer

Risks for cervical cancer

HPV, hepatitis, genetic factors, radiation (ultraviolet rays)

Chemotherapy care/monitoring

nausea/vomiting, sore mouth or loss of teeth, pain and fatigue, WBC count (infection), temperature/fever, change in taste sensation

Stage 1 cancer

no metastasis

Stage 2 cancer

local invasion

Stage 3 cancer

spread to regional structures

Stage 4

distant metastasis

Risks for liver cancer

alcohol, cirrhosis, high fat diet

Cell characteristics of benign tumors

cells are similar to normal cells, well-differentiated, mitosis fairly normal

Cell characteristics of malignant tumors

cells vary in size and shape with large nuclei, poorly-differentiated, higher mitotic rate and atypical

Growth patterns of benign tumors

relatively slow expanding mass, frequential encapsulated

Growth patterns of malignant tumors

rapid growth, cells not adhesive, infiltrate tissue, no capsule

Spread (metastasis) benign tumors

remains localized

Spread (metastasis) malignant tumors

invades nearby tissues or metastasizes to distant sites through blood and lymph vessels

Systemic effects benign tumors

rare

Systemic effects malignant tumors

often present

Life-threatening benign tumors

only in certain locations (e.g. brain)

Life-threatening malignant tumors

yes, by tissue destruction and spread of tumors

Systemic effects of malignant tumors

weight loss and cachexia, anemia, severe fatigue, infections, bleeding (tumor erodes blood vessels)

Warning signs of cancer

unusual bleeding or discharge anywhere in the body, change in bowel/bladder habits, change in wort/mole, a sore that does not heal, unexplained weight loss, anemia/low hemoglobin and persistent fatigue, persistent cough/hoarseness without reason, a solid lump often painless in the breast or testes anywhere on the body

Side effects of chemotherapy; bone marrow suppression

neutropenia (decreased neutrophils), thrombocytopenia (decreased platelets), anemia (reduction in red blood cells)

Side effects of chemotherapy N&V and hair; med to treat with

caused by direct stimulation of the chemoreceptor trigger zone; premedicate (ondansetron), alopecia

Protein binding

If there's low protein in the blood, or if you give two drugs that are both highly protein-bound, you can end up with too much free (active) drug — which can make the drug too strong or toxic

Neutropenia normal level and level when to hold on chemotherapy

normal 2500-7000; absolute neutrophil count <500 (hold on chemo)

What are Alkylating Agents, and how do they work?

Cell cycle phase nonspecific; kill cells by alkylating DNA, causing damage at any point in the cycle

Example of an alkylating agent

cyclophosphamide

What are Platinum Compounds used for in chemotherapy?

Cell cycle phase nonspecific; Cross-links DNA to prevent replication and transcription

Example of a platinum compound

cisplatin

How do Antimetabolites like Methotrexate work?

Folic acid analog; S-phase specific; Disrupts DNA synthesis

Example of antimetabolites

Methotrexate

What is the mechanism of action for Fluorouracil?

Pyrimidine analog; S-phase specific; Inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis; Only kills actively dividing cells

What are Mitotic Inhibitors, and when do they act?

Act during the M phase of the cell cycle; Prevent cell division

Example of a mitotic inhibitor

vincristine

How does Vincristine work in cancer treatment?

Inhibits microtubule formation; Arrests mitosis in metaphase; Type of Mitotic Inhibitor

What does Tamoxifen do?

Blocks estrogen receptors

What is Tamoxifen used for?

used for established breast cancer disease and for reducing occurrence in high-risk patients

Adverse effects of Tamoxifen

hot flashes, fluid retention, endometrial cancer

Drug used for hormonal treatment

Leuprolide

MOA of Leuprolide

inhibits gonadotropin release, suppressing ovarian and testicular steroidogenesis

Adverse effects of Leuprolide

generally well tolerated, hot flashes, testosterone loss may aggravate bone pain