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Monday, October 31, 2011

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer. Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical Cancer Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer symptoms vary from woman to woman. Some women will experience no symptoms, while others may have severe cervical cancer symptoms.

The symptoms of cervical cancer are general, meaning they are also the symptoms of many other medical conditions. Reporting symptoms to your doctor is the key for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Early Cervical Cancer Symptoms
In the early stages of cervical cancer, there are rarely any symptoms. Although cervical cancer can be diagnosed in its early stages by a routine Pap smear, usually no apparent symptoms would indicate cancer is present. This is why having a regular Pap smear is vital to early detection.

Cervical Cancer Symptoms in Later Stages
As cervical cancer progresses into more advanced stages, symptoms begin to appear. Cervical cancer symptoms include:

Pelvic pain. Persistent pelvic pain unrelated to other conditions, menstruation, or physical exertion can be a symptom of cervical cancer.

Pain during sexual intercourse. Some women with cervical cancer may experience pain during vaginal intercourse.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding. Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most commonly experienced cervical cancer symptom. Women should be aware of post-coital bleeding (bleeding after sex), bleeding after douching, heavy periods, heavy spotting between periods, or an additional period during the monthly cycle. Any heavy, sudden onset of abnormal vaginal bleeding should be reported to your physician immediately.

Vaginal discharge. A vaginal discharge is a common symptom related to many women's conditions. In advanced cervical cancer, a vaginal discharge may be present and may or may not have an odor.

What to Do if You Have Cervical Cancer Symptoms
If you are experiencing cervical cancer symptoms, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. When you make your appointment, the receptionist will ask the reason for your visit. Be sure to inform him of your symptoms. This may determine how soon you see your doctor. If you feel uncomfortable speaking to the receptionist about your symptoms, ask to speak to a nurse.

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms. Include information such as when and how often you experience the symptoms, what medications (if any) alleviate the symptoms, and how long you have had the symptoms. All of this information help your doctor make a proper diagnosis.

What is Cervical Cancer?
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
Treatment of Cervical Cancer
Preventing Cervical Cancer

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Preventing Cervical Cancer. Cervical Cancer Prevention

Cervical Cancer Prevention
How to Reduce Your Risk of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer prevention should be a top priority for all women. Women can take several simple steps women to reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer. Small lifestyle adjustments combined with medical care go a long way in preventing cervical cancer.

1. Practice Safe Sex
Safe sex is not only essential for preventing pregnancy, but also for sexually transmitted diseases like the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus and is the primary cause of most cases of cervical cancer. You can reduce your risk of being infected with HPV by using a condom during sexual intercourse. A condom won't provide 100-percent protection against HPV, but studies show that condoms do provide some protection against HPV. You are much better off with your partner wearing a condom than not wearing one.

2. Limit How Many Sexual Partners You Have
Practicing safe sex is more than just wearing a condom. It also means limiting the amount of sexual partners you have in your lifetime. Having multiple sexual partners increases your risk of being infected with HPV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

3. Get Screened Regularly for Cervical Cancer
Getting a regular Pap smear is a highly effective way to reduce your risk of cervical cancer. The Pap smear is a simple test that can detect abnormal cervical changes long before they become cancerous. The key to the effectiveness of the Pap smear is having it done regularly. How often you need a Pap smear varies from woman to woman, based on age, previous pap smear results, and your cervical cancer risk factor. Always consult with your doctor about how often you should be having Pap smears.

If your Pap smear results are abnormal, be sure to follow up with your doctor's recommendations. This could mean more frequent Pap smears or a colposcopy, an exam that allows the cervix to be viewed more closely.

4. Be a Non-Smoker
Simply put, smoking offers no health benefits. It is common knowledge that smoking affects the lungs, but did you know that smoking can affect your cervix? Studies show that smoking can actually speed up the process of cervical damage caused by HPV. Quitting now greatly reduces your risk of several types of cancer, including cervical cancer.

5. Get Immunized Against HPV
HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus known to cause cervical cancer in women. Fortunately, there is an approved vaccine that not only protects against high risk strains, but also against two strains known to cause genital warts. Gardasil is available to women under 27, with a target age of 11 to 12 years of age. The vaccine is given in a series of three shots over a course of six months. It is most effective when given to young women before they become sexually active.

What is Cervical Cancer?
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
Treatment of Cervical Cancer

Source:
"National Cancer Institute Fact Sheets." Human Papillomaviruses and Cancer: Questions and Answers. 06 June 2006. National Cancer Institute. 17 Aug 2007.

Treatment of Cervical Cancer. Treating Cervical Cancer

Treating Cervical Cancer
Cervical Cancer Treatment Options

Three treatments methods are commonly used to treat cervical cancer: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Sometimes they are used alone, and there are times when they are used in conjunction with one another.

The treatment method(s) chosen depend on several factors like type of cervical cancer, stage of the disease, general health of the patient, and if other treatments have been utilized.

Surgical Methods Used to Treat Cervical Cancer
Surgery is a common method used to treat cervical cancer. Many times, surgery is combined with other treatment methods, like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The type of surgery chosen to treat cervical cancer depends on the stage and other factors.

Surgical treatments for cervical cancer include:

Lymphadenectomy Surgical removal of the lymph nodes. It is common in treating women with cervical cancer.

Radical Trachelectomy Removal of the cervix and its surrounding tissue while leaving the body of the uterus intact. A radical trachelectomy with lymphadenectomy is an option for young women with early stage disease who wish to maintain fertility.

Radical Hysterectomy Surgical removal of the uterus, cervix, and part of the vagina. In some cases, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lymph nodes are removed. A radical hysterectomy may be combine with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy Surgical removal of both ovaries and the fallopian tubes. This type of surgery accompanies a hysterectomy is some cases.

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is prescribed to treat cervical cancer and also to help radiation therapy be more effective. Chemotherapy drugs work by killing cancer cells or preventing them from multiplying. Several chemotherapy drugs are available to treat cervical cancer and will be prescribed according to the stage of cancer, type of cervical cancer, and other health factors.

Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high energy beams to reduce the size of a tumor or to kill cancer cells. This type of treatment can be done internally with radioactive materials that are implanted in the uterus or externally with the use of a radiation therapy machines.

Often prescribed with chemotherapy, radiation therapy is an effective method of treating cervical cancer. It can however, be prescribed alone or before or after chemotherapy. Radiation treatment plans depend on stage of cervical cancer, other treatment methods used, and the general health of the patient.

What is Cervical Cancer?
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
Preventing Cervical Cancer

Cervical Cancer Diagnosis. How is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed

Cervical Cancer Diagnosis
How is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed

Cervical Cancer Symptoms
Unlike other types of cancer, cervical cancer symptoms do not usually appear until the cancer has spread to an advanced stage. Because most women do not experience symptoms that prompt them to seek medical treatment, a regular Pap smear is essential for early detection.

The Pap Smear
The Pap smear plays a vital role in diagnosing cervical cancer. It is how most women discover they suffer from cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer. The Pap smear is a simple test that can reveal cervical abnormalities long before they progress into cancer.

All women should have a regular Pap smear, unless their physician has advised them they no longer need one. This may also include post-menopausal women and those who have had hysterectomies.

Colposcopy Exam
If Pap smear results reveal cervical abnormalities, a colposcopy is then scheduled. A colposcopy is an in-office exam that allows the doctor to view the cervix more closely with a colposcope. A colposcope is a lighted instrument that magnifies the cervix. It rests externally, outside of the vagina, during the exam. The images seen from the colposcope may be projected on a computer or television screen. You are not obligated to watch, but it may help you understand the exam better.

Cervical Biopsy and Endocervical Curettage
During the colposcopy, the doctor may perform a cervical biopsy depending on what is found during the exam. A cervical biopsy involves removing small amount of cervical tissue to be examined under a microscope. It takes only seconds for the doctor to gain a tissue sample and is only momentarily uncomfortable. Depending on the findings during the colposcopy, a few areas of the cervix may be biopsied.

Along with a cervical biopsy, an endocervical curettage (ECC) may also be done. During an ECC, the doctor uses a small brush to remove tissue from the endocervical canal, the narrow area between the uterus and cervix. An ECC can be moderately painful, but the pain disappears when the ECC is done.

Biopsy and ECC results usually take less than two weeks to return. Your doctor may have you schedule another visit to go over the results with you or he/she may call you by phone to inform you of the results.

Cone Biopsy and LEEP
There are times when a larger biopsy needs to be done to diagnose cervical cancer. In these cases, a cone biopsy may be performed. During a cone biopsy, a cone shaped piece of tissue is removed under general anesthesia. A cone biopsy is also used to remove pre-cancerous tissue from the cervix.

A loop electro surgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a procedure done under local anesthesia to remove tissue from the cervix. A LEEP uses an electrically charged wire loop to remove a tissue sample.

This method is more commonly used to treat high grade cervical dysplasia, rather than diagnose cervical cancer.

The Results are In
Once the biopsy results return, cervical cancer can either be ruled out or diagnosed. If a cervical cancer diagnosis is made, the next step is to determine what stage the cervical cancer is in. There are five cervical cancer stages and each represents how far advanced the cancer has spread.

Once the stage of cervical cancer has been determined, a treatment plan can then be developed.

What is Cervical Cancer?
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Treatment of Cervical Cancer
Preventing Cervical Cancer

Sources:
"What You Need to Know About Cervical Cancer." 03 March 2005. National Cancer Institute. 15 Aug 2007.
"How Cervical Cancer is Diagnosed." 04 Aug 2006. American Cancer Society. 15 Aug 2007.
"How is Cervical Cancer Staged?." Detailed Guide Cervical Cancer. 04 Aug 2006. American Cancer Society. 15 Aug 2007.

What is Cervical Cancer? Cervical Cancer 101

Cervical Cancer 101
What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a disease that affects the cervix in the female reproductive system. The cervix is the lower portion of the uterus that connects the upper vagina to the uterus. It is about two inches in length. During childbirth, the cervix dilates, allowing the baby to travel from the uterus to the vagina.

How Common is Cervical Cancer?
While cervical cancer used to be a common cause of cancer death among women in the United States, it is now much less common. In 2007, it is estimated that over 11,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer in 2007 within the United States. Over 40,000 will be diagnosed with non-invasive cervical cancer. Unfortunately, 3,670 women will die of the disease in 2007.

In underdeveloped countries, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related death in women.

What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
In the early stages of cervical cancer, there usually are no symptoms. Cervical cancer symptoms begin to appear as the disease advances, invading deeper into the cervix and surrounding tissue. As the disease progresses, women may experience:

abnormal vaginal bleeding, including post-coital bleeding
pain during sexual intercourse, however this can be common and unrelated to cervical cancer
pelvic pain
heavy vaginal discharge

Read more about cervical cancer symptoms.

What are the Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer?
One of the main risks for developing cervical cancer being infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that is transmitted through sexual contact. Other cervical cancer risk factors include having sex at an early age, smoking cigarettes, having multiple sexual partners, and having a weakened immune system.

Keep in mind that risk factors only increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer, they do not guarantee you will develop it.

Cervical Cancer Risk Factors
HPV and Cervical Cancer

How is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed?
The first step in diagnosing cervical cancer is through the Pap smear, a simple test that allows cervical cells to be examined under a microscope. If suspicious cells are found, then a colposcopy is performed. A colposcopy allows a doctor to view the cervix more closely. During the colpsocopy, a cervical biopsy may be done. If the biopsy finds cancerous cells, additional tests will be done to determine the stage of the disease.

How is Cervical Cancer Treated?
Cervical cancer is treated in several ways. The type of cervical cancer and the stage of the disease greatly affects what treatment methods are used.

Cervical cancer may be treated with surgery, such as a hysterectomy. Other forms forms of treatment include chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Treatment varies from patient to patient. One patient may only have surgery, while another may undergo several types of treatment. It all depends on the type and stage of cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer Treatment Overview
Treating Cervical Cancer with Chemotherapy
• Radiation Therapy and Cervical Cancer

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
Treatment of Cervical Cancer
Preventing Cervical Cancer

Sources:
"What You Need to Know About Cervical Cancer." 03 March 2005. National Cancer Institute. 21 June 2007.
"How Cervical Cancer is Diagnosed." 04 Aug 2006. American Cancer Society. 15 Aug 2007.
"How is Cervical Cancer Staged?" Detailed Guide Cervical Cancer. 04 Aug 2006. American Cancer Society. 15 Aug 2007.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Symptoms of Lung Cancer. What Are The Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

Symptoms of Lung Cancer
What Are The Symptoms of Lung Cancer?

What are the symptoms of lung cancer? Since lung cancer survival is better the earlier it is caught, understanding some of the common symptoms of lung cancer is very important. Symptoms of lung cancer to be aware of can include:

Symptoms Related to Cancer in The Lungs
A cough that persists over time, or does not go away with treatment is a common warning sign of lung cancer. Other local symptoms that can be caused by lung cancer include:

• coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
• difficulty breathing – due to decreased airflow by a tumor obstructing the large airways or spread through the lungs
• wheezing – caused by the interference of airflow through an airway obstructed by a tumor
• pain in the chest, back, shoulder, or arm – when a lung tumor presses on nerves around the lungs
• repeated lung infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis
• hoarseness

No Symptoms
Roughly 25% of the time, lung cancer causes no symptoms at all. These tumors are usually found when a chest x-ray is done for another reason. Occasionally, lung cancer is found when a smoker or former smoker has a procedure to screen for lung cancer.

General Symptoms Associated With Lung Cancer
Lung cancer can sometimes present with vague symptoms. Concerns such as fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, and even depression can be a symptom of lung cancer as well as many other conditions. It is important to talk with your health care provider if you have any concerns such as these, especially if you have a history of smoking.

Symptoms Related to The Spread of Lung Cancer
Sometimes, the first symptoms of lung cancer are due to its spread (metastasis) to other regions in the body. With lung cancer, the most common places lung cancer spreads are to the liver, adrenal glands, brain, and bones. Symptoms commonly found include:

• bone - pain in the back, ribs, or hips
• brain - headaches, seizures, weakness on one side of the body, vision symptoms

Paraneoplastic Symptoms
Paraneoplastic symptoms are symptoms related to the production of hormones-like chemicals by some types of lung cancers. These often show up as unexplained findings on lab tests and can include:

• low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
• elevated calcium levels (hypercalcemia)
• anemia
• clubbing of the fingers (bulging of the fingernails)
• new bone formation seen on x-rays

What is Lung Cancer?
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
Treatment of Lung Cancer
Preventing Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Prevention. What Can You Do to Help Prevent Lung Cancer?

Lung Cancer Prevention
What Can You Do to Help Prevent Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer prevention is a critical topic, since lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women worldwide. Can lung cancer be prevented? It is estimated that 90% of lung cancer could be prevented through action and awareness. Smoking accounts for the majority of preventable lung cancers, but non-smokers can take action to lower their risk as well. Those who have already been diagnosed with lung cancer should not despair. Some of these measures have been shown to improve survival after lung cancer is already present.

Smoking Cessation and Lung Cancer Prevention
Smoking is responsible for 87% of lung cancers in the United States. Quitting smoking at any time can lower the risk of developing lung cancer, and appears to be beneficial after a diagnosis of lung cancer as well.

Radon Exposure and Lung Cancer Prevention
Exposure to radon in the home is the second leading cause of lung cancer overall, and the number one cause in non-smokers. Radon is an invisible radioactive gas that results from the normal decay of radium in the soil. Inexpensive test kits are available at most hardware stores and should be placed in the lowest level of living space in the home. If the results are abnormal, the Environmental Protection Agency can provide assistance in repairing the problem.

Secondhand Smoke and Lung Cancer Prevention
Exposure to second hand smoke increases the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers two to three fold.

Asbestos and Lung Cancer Prevention
Workplace exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, and combined with smoking the risk is exponential. Employers should have safety recommendations for those exposed. Homes built prior to 1970 may contain asbestos insulation. Left alone, this insulation is rarely of concern, but a contractor that is certified to work with asbestos should be consulted when remodeling.

Chemical and Occupational Exposures and Lung Cancer Prevention
Several chemicals used in industry and around homes may increase the risk of lung cancer. Labels on home products such as wood stripper, and Material Safety Data Sheets provided by employers, provide information on safe exposure and proper masks to use to limit exposure.

Diet and Exercise and Lung Cancer Prevention
A healthy diet and moderate physical activity both play a role in lung cancer prevention.

What is Lung Cancer?
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
Treatment of Lung Cancer

Sources:

National Cancer Institute. Lung Cancer Prevention (PDQ). Health Professional Version. Updated 08/06/09. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/prevention/lung/healthprofessional

Environmental Protection Agency. Radon. Updated 02/04/10. http://www.epa.gov/radon/

An Overview of Lung Cancer Treatments

An Overview of Lung Cancer Treatments
What Treatments Are Available For Lung Cancer?

There are many lung cancer treatments available for lung cancer. These vary depending upon the type of lung cancer and stage. When lung cancer is caught early, treatment may be curative. Even when lung cancer is caught in the later stages, lung cancer treatments can improve survival and decrease the pain and discomfort of living with cancer. This is called palliative treatment. Surgery is usually chosen when a cure is considered possible. In some cases, chemotherapy and radiation therapy can also result in a cure.

Surgery
When lung cancer (especially non-small cell lung cancer) is caught before it has spread beyond the lungs, surgery can often be curative. The three procedures performed commonly to remove lung cancer include:

• Wedge resection – the tumor and some surrounding tissue is removed
• Lobectomy – a lobe of the lung is removed
• Pneumonectomy – an entire lung is removed

Common side effects of surgery are infection, bleeding, and shortness of breath, depending on lung function prior to surgery and the amount of lung tissue removed.

• Surgery for Lung Cancer

Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays applied from outside the body to kill cancer cells. It is often combined with chemotherapy. Common side effects can include redness and irritation of the skin where the radiation is given, and fatigue.

• Radiation Therapy for Lung Cancer

Chemotherapy
Both oral and intravenous anti-cancer drugs are available to treat lung cancer. These drugs are used to kill rapidly growing cancer cells. The side effects typically encountered occur when the drugs kill rapidly dividing non-cancerous cells, such as hair follicles (resulting in hair loss,) and stomach lining (causing nausea and vomiting.) Sometimes chemotherapy is given as adjuvant therapy, used along with surgery to catch cancer cells that may have spread microscopically. Most of the time, chemotherapy is given as a palliative therapy, to improve survival time and decrease symptoms.

• Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer

Targeted Therapies
Newer treatments are now available that target cancer cells specifically. Because these do not attack all dividing cells there are usually fewer side effects.

• Targeted Therapies for Lung Cancer

Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI)
PCI uses radiation to kill cancer cells that may have spread to the brain but do not show up on imaging. This is primarily used with small-cell lung cancer.

Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are studies in progress testing many new cancer therapies. An oncologist may recommend one of these when treatment options are limited, or as an addition to other treatment. While these trials can offer hope that standard treatments do not, they do not necessarily promise survival will be improved.

• What are Clinical Trials?
• Should I Participate in a Clinical Trial?
• Types and Phases of Clinical Trials
• How to Find Clinical Trials for Lung Cancer

Alternative Treatments for Lung Cancer
Several complimentary therapies are available for those diagnosed with lung cancer. Studies are currently looking at these treatments both as an adjunct to conventional treatment, and as a way to decrease symptoms and side effects of traditional therapy.

• What Alternative Treatments Work for Lung Cancer?

What is Lung Cancer?
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
Preventing Lung Cancer

Sources:

National Cancer Institute. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment PDQ. Updated 01/29/10. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/non-small-cell-lung/patient/

National Cancer Institute. Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment PDQ. Updated 08/28/09. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/small-cell-lung/patient/
.

Diagnosis of Lung Cancer. How is Lung Cancer Diagnosed

Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
How is Lung Cancer Diagnosed

How do you diagnose lung cancer? Lung cancer is often suspected after an abnormal spot is found on a chest x-ray done to evaluate a cough or chest pain. During this frightening time, it is helpful to know some of the procedures that may be recommended to find out if the abnormality is benign (non-cancerous), or malignant (cancerous.) If the abnormality is malignant, further studies are done to see if the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other areas in the body.

History and Physical
When lung cancer is suspected, a physician will first perform a thorough history and physical exam. This is done to evaluate symptoms and risk factors for lung cancer, and to look for any physical signs suggestive of lung cancer. These can include abnormal lung sounds, enlarged lymph nodes, or clubbing of the fingernails (chubby fingernails.)

Chest X-ray
A chest x-ray is usually the first test performed to evaluate any concerns based on a careful history and physical. This may show a mass in the lungs or enlarged lymph nodes. Sometimes the chest x-ray is normal, and further tests are needed look for a suspected lung cancer. Even if a mass is found, these are not always cancerous and further studies are needed.

CT Scan (computerized tomography)
A CT scan is frequently the second step either to follow up on an abnormal chest x-ray finding, or to evaluate troublesome symptoms in those with a normal chest x-ray. CT scanning involves a series of x-rays that create a 3-dimensional view of the lungs. If the CT is abnormal, the diagnosis of lung cancer still needs confirmation through a sample of tissue by one of the procedures below.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
In some patients, MRI will be used to evaluate the possibility of lung cancer. This procedure uses magnetism and does not involve radiation. Certain individuals, such as those with metal implants (pacemakers, etc) should not have MRI scans. The technician will ask questions to make sure these are not present.

PET scan
A PET scan uses radioactive material to create colorful 3-dimensional images of a region of the body. This type of scan differs from the others in that it defines tumors that are actively growing. As an addition to the other procedures, some researchers suggest that PET scanning may detect tumors earlier, even before they are visible anatomically through other studies.

Sputum Cytology
After a lung cancer is suspected based on imaging, a sample of tissue is required to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of cancer. Sputum cytology is the easiest way to do this, but its use is limited to those tumors that extend into the airways. Sputum cytology is not always accurate and can miss some cancer cells.

Bronchoscopy
In a bronchoscopy, a lung specialist inserts a tube into the airways to visualize and take a sample of the tumor. This procedure is used when the tumor is found in the large airways and can be reached by the scope. Patients are given anesthesia during this procedure to minimize discomfort.

• What Should I Know About My Bronchoscopy?

Needle Biopsy (fine needle aspiration)
With this procedure, a hollow needle is inserted through the chest wall, usually guided by CT visualization, to take a sample of the tumor. This can be performed for tumors that cannot be reached by bronchoscopy.

Thoracentesis
When lung cancer affects the periphery of the lungs, it can create a fluid build up between the lungs and the lung lining (pleural effusion). With local anesthesia, a larger needle is inserted into the pleural space from which either a diagnostic amount of fluid (small amount to test for cancer cells) or a therapeutic amount of fluid (large amount to improve pain/shortness of breath) is removed.

Mediastinoscopy
This procedure is done in the operating room under general anesthesia. A scope is inserted just above the sternum (the breast bone) into the region between the lungs to take tissue samples from lymph nodes.

• What Can You Expect During a Mediastinoscopy?

Test to Determine Spread of Lung Cancer (Metastasis)
Lung cancer most commonly spreads to the liver, the adrenal glands, the brain, and the bones. Common tests include:

• CT scan of the abdomen – to check for spread to the liver or adrenal glands
• CT scan of the brain – to look for metastases to the brain
• Bone Scan – to test for bone involvement, especially the back, hips and ribs

Other Tests During Diagnosis
Additional non-diagnostic tests are frequently performed during the diagnosis of lung cancer as well. These can include:

• Pulmonary function tests – these test lung capacity and can determine how much the tumor is interfering with breathing, and sometimes, whether it is safe to perform surgery
• Blood tests – certain blood tests can detect biochemical abnormalities caused by lung cancers, and can also suggest spread of the tumor

What is Lung Cancer?
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Treatment of Lung Cancer
Preventing Lung Cancer

Sources:
National Institute of Health. Medline Plus: Lung Cancer. Updated 03/01/10. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/lungcancer.html


What is Lung Cancer? Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is Lung Cancer?
Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Lung cancer arises when a series of mutations in normal lung cells cause them to become abnormal and grow out of control. These changes can take place anywhere from the bronchus (the windpipe), down to the small air sacs in the periphery of the lungs where oxygen exchange takes place.

How Common is Lung Cancer?
Once uncommon, the surge in smoking of the 20th century has contributed to a tremendous rise in the incidence of lung cancer. Lung cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in men and second leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. On the bright side, with widespread awareness of the risks of smoking, many hope these numbers will decrease in the future.

Causes of Lung Cancer
Tobacco use is responsible for almost 90% of lung cancer cases. That being said, those who have never smoked or quit long ago, may develop lung cancer as well. Common causes include radon exposure in the home, workplace chemicals such as asbestos, and environmental pollutants including secondhand smoke.

Lung Cancer Causes - An Overview
Environmental Causes of Lung Cancer
Occupational Causes of Lung Cancer
Hereditary Lung Cancer
Radon at Home - The Leading Cause in Non-Smokers

Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer most commonly presents with a cough that does not go away over time. Sometimes it shows up with vague symptoms, such as fatigue, and about 25% of the time, there are no symptoms at all. Since lung cancer is common, anyone, especially those who smoke, should seek prompt medical attention for any symptom that is new or unexplained. The most common symptoms include:

a chronic cough
coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
difficulty breathing
wheezing
pain in the chest, back, shoulder, or arm

More about symptoms:

Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Early Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Symptoms of Lung Cancer in Women
Symptoms of Lung Cancer in Men

Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Lung cancer is often suspected initially from a chest x-ray done to evaluate a cough or chest pain. Further studies are performed to determine if the abnormality is benign (non-cancerous), or malignant (cancerous.) If these show cancer, further tests may be performed to see whether the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other areas in the body.

Diagnosing Lung Cancer
Screening for Lung Cancer

Types of Lung Cancer
There are two major types of lung cancer. Non small-cell lung cancer accounts for roughly 80% of cases. Small cell lung cancer, which is usually causes by smoking, comprises 15% of lung cancers and tends to spread quickly. Rare forms of lung cancer include carcinoid tumors and mesothelioma.

Lung Cancer Types
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Small Cell Lung Cancer

Stages of Lung Cancer
Non small cell cancer is divided into stages from 1 to 4 depending on how far the cancer has spread. Stage 1 is localized. Stage 2 has spread locally, often to a lymph node. Stage 3A and Stage 3B involves further spread locally but beyond the lung. Stage 4 indicates spread to another region of the body. Small cell cancer is separated into two stages based on whether the cancer is limited or extensive.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Stages
Small Cell Lung Cancer Stages

How is Lung Cancer Treated?
Depending upon the stage and type of lung cancer diagnosed, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy. New treatments, often with fewer side effects, are becoming available that target lung cancer.

Overview of Lung Cancer Treatments
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation Therapy
Targeted Therapies
Alternative Treatments

What is My Prognosis?
Caught early when it can be treated with surgery, lung cancer can be very curable. Sadly, the majority of people with lung cancer are diagnosed after the cancer has spread too far to do surgery. Even in this case (inoperable lung cancer,) treatment can increase length of survival, and sometimes result in long-term cancer free remission. Since people vary widely in their general health at the time of diagnosis, it can be discouraging and misleading to look at statistics. Your health care provider is a better source for looking at your individual situation.

Lung Cancer Survival by Type and Stage

What is Lung Cancer?
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
Treatment of Lung Cancer
Preventing Lung Cancer

Sources:
National Institute of Health. Medline Plus: Lung Cancer. Updated 01/21/2009. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/lungcancer.html

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

What You Need to Know About Breast Cancer Symptoms
Symptoms of Early Stage Breast Cancer, Advanced Disease, and Recurrence

Symptoms: the physical signs of a disease

Why You Need To Know About Breast Cancer Symptoms
Breast cancer begins in a cell, which divides and multiplies at an uncontrolled rate. A small clump of cancer cells are too tiny to be felt, so the earliest stages of breast cancer usually have no symptoms. A mammogram can detect cancer before you can feel a lump, which is why your annual screening mammogram is so important. Some benign breast conditions can seem like cancer, so it’s good to know the difference, and get a health professional to check out worrisome lumps.

Understanding Symptoms
The classic symptom for breast cancer is a lump found in the breast or armpit. An aggressive type of this disease, inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), grows in sheets or nests of tumor cells that invade the skin and can resemble a rash. Doing your monthly breast self-exam (BSE) is a great way to be familiar with your breasts’ texture, cyclical changes, size, and skin condition. Early detection is the best way to protect your health and improve your odds of survival. Don’t hesitate to see your doctor or nurse for a clinical breast exam (CBE) if you have a question about a change in your breasts.

Symptoms You Can See or Feel

swelling or lump (mass) in the breast
swelling in the armpit (lymph nodes)
nipple discharge (clear or bloody)
pain in the nipple
inverted or retracted nipple
scaly or pitted skin on nipple
persistent tenderness of the breast
unusual breast pain or discomfort

Symptoms Seen On Breast Imaging

Microcalcifications in tight clusters
Dense mass with spiky (spiculated) outline

Some Symptoms of Advanced (Metastatic) Breast Cancer
Stage 4, or metastatic breast cancer is the most advanced stage of this disease. Metastatic breast cancer is defined as having spread beyond the breast and underarm lymph nodes into other parts of the body.

bone pain (bone metastases)
shortness of breath (lung metastases)
drop in appetite (liver metastases)
unintentional weight loss (liver metastases)
headaches, neurological pain or weakness (could be brain metastases)

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) – Aggressive and Unusual Symptoms
One type of breast cancer that does not appear in lumps is called inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). This aggressive cancer grows in sheets instead of lumps, and it invades nearby skin, resembling a rash. It will not respond to topical creams or antibiotics, and should be treated very promptly. Symptoms:

a sudden increase in mature breast size (as much as a cup size in a few days)
itching in the skin of the breast that is continuous and not relieved by pills or creams
a change in the breast skin color, resulting in pink, red, or dark-colored areas
breast is excessively warm to the touch, or harder or firmer than usual
unusual pain, which occurs out of the regular cycle
sometimes a change in skin texture, similar to the skin of an orange
breast skin ulcers (later stage IBC)

Symptoms of Breast Cancer Recurrence
Recurrence of breast cancer is classified as local, regional, and distant. A distant recurrence is the same as advanced (metastatic) breast cancer. A local recurrence is breast cancer that has returned after treatment, in or close to the original tumor location. It can often be effectively treated. Regional recurrence may be in the chest wall muscles, or in lymph nodes located beneath your sternum, just above your collarbones, and around your neck.

Local Recurrence Symptoms:

a small lump or rash in the excision scar, on or under the skin

Regional Recurrence Symptoms:

swollen lymph node in the same armpit where cancer was previously removed
swollen lymph nodes above collarbones or sides of neck

A New Tumor Is Not a Recurrence
If a new tumor appears and has a different pathology than the original breast cancer, it is not considered a recurrence. It is called a new primary, and can occur in a different area of the breast that was originally affected, or in the opposite breast. A new cancer is diagnosed and treated independently from the original tumor.

What is Breast Cancer?
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Treatments for Breast Cancer
Preventing Breast Cancer

Source:
National Institutes of Health. Medline Plus. Breast Cancer. Symptoms. Updated: 4/3/2007

All About Breast Cancer Prevention

All About Breast Cancer Prevention and Lowering Your Risk of Breast Cancer
Risk Factors, Reducing Risk, Protect Your Breast Health

Prevention: actions which reduce the chance of getting a disease

Why You Need To Know About Breast Cancer Prevention

In 2007, an estimated 240,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in America. Of those diagnosed, 40,000 will die from this disease. Although some of the contributors to the development of breast cancer are known, there is no guaranteed way to prevent it. But by educating yourself and taking control of some lifestyle factors, you can lower your risk of developing breast cancer.

Understanding Your Risk of Breast Cancer
Your risk is calculated by looking at several factors, some of which you are born with, and some of which you can choose. Knowing your health background will help you and your doctor make good choices about lifestyle and health care, which can lower your risk of breast cancer. You can try online risk assessment tools, but don’t use these as a substitute for talking with your doctor.

Breast Cancer Risk Factors in Detail:

Factors You Can’t Control


Gender
Genes
Race
Age
Menopausal status
Drugs and treatments
Menses onset
Family Health History

Lifestyle Factors You Can Control

Pregnancy
Breastfeeding
Hormone Replacement Therapy use
Alcohol
Smoking
Diet
Exercise
Weight

Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer
Whether you are at low or high risk, you have many options to lower your risk. When it’s found at an early stage, breast cancer can effectively be treated, and there are several ways to help prevent recurrence. Take responsibility for your breast health.

Protect Your Breast Health

Do regular breast self exams (BSE)
Know Your Cyclical Changes

Learn About Breast Lumps
- Cysts
- Fibroadenomas
- Pseudolumps
- Breast Hematomas
- Tumors
Learn About Benign Breast Conditions
- Fibrocystic changes
- Atypical hyperplasia
- Breast Inflammation (Mastitis)
- Duct Ectasia
- Benign Nipple Discharge
- Adenosis (enlarged lobules)
- Intraductal Papillomas (benign tumors)

Have a Clinical Breast Exam

Schedule Your Annual Mammogram
- Taking Two Mammogram Views
- Look at Mammogram Images
- Understand Your Mammogram Report

Having a Breast Ultrasound

Having Ductal Lavage

Breast Cancer Risk Myths

Ten Common Myths About Causes of Breast Cancer
Will Grapefruit Really Increase My Risk of Developing Breast Cancer?
Ten Common Questions About Breast Cancer

Ongoing Research – the Future of Breast Cancer Prevention
Will breast cancer ever be preventable? Researchers hope so, and the National Cancer Institute says that clinical trials for high-risk women have been done. Since estrogen fuels 80% of all breast cancers, the trials have focused on drugs that affect estrogen levels. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) such as Tamoxifen and Raloxifene have been tested, and appear to help prevent the development of breast cancer, but all the results are not in yet. Aromatase inhibitors, such as Aromasin, help prevent estrogen production, and are still in trial studies. Genetic tests for BRCA1 and BRCA2 are now available to help women determine the degree of risk they may face. In very high-risk patients, preventive mastectomy may be considered, as well as oophorectomy (removal of ovaries to lower estrogen levels). If you have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your doctor about the options that would lower your risk.

What is Breast Cancer?
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Treatments for Breast Cancer

Source:
National Cancer Institute. Fact Sheet. Breast Cancer Prevention Studies. Updated: 06/01/2005.

Overview of Breast Cancer Treatment Options

Overview of Breast Cancer Treatment Options
The Five Types of Breast Cancer Treatments

After your breast cancer has been diagnosed and staged, your healthcare team will recommend treatment. Your treatment plan will be based on the type of breast cancer you have; the size, grade, and biological characteristics of the tumor; your hormonal status; and your general health.

There are five standard treatment options: surgery and radiation (typically used for local control of cancer within the breast and lymph nodes) and chemo, biologic, and hormonal therapies (usually reserved for control of potential disease in the rest of the body).

1) Surgery
The goals of breast cancer surgery are to remove the cancerous tissue, and to analyze it for type, grade, size, hormonal status, and possible metastasis. Prevention of breast cancer recurrence is your surgeon’s top priority. You will have some choices about which kind of surgery to have, depending on the tumor size and location. If you have a mastectomy, reconstruction may also be an option.

Diagnostic surgery is done to determine if cancer is actually present, and if it has spread. Procedures include:

breast biopsy
lymph node removal (sentinel node biopsy or axillary node dissection)

Standard therapeutic surgeries, those used to remove cancer, are:

lumpectomy
quadrantectomy
mastectomy (partial, modified radical)

2) Radiation
DNA is the coding that serves as the programming for all of the body's processes and characteristics. Cancer cells grow in an unorganized and uncontrolled way as a result of glitches in DNA. Radiation therapy works by causing severe damage to that abnormal DNA, disrupting growth signals and preventing cell division. Healthy cells that surround the cancer can survive the radiation, with some side effects. Radiation technology is improving, becoming more targeted and effective.

There are two main types of radiation therapy:

external beam
brachytherapy (internal beam)

3) Chemotherapy
Cancer is uncontrolled cell growth, and chemotherapy targets rapidly diving cells throughout your body. Chemotherapy is considered systemic therapy because, like systemic (metastatic) cancer, it goes everywhere in your body's systems. Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells and prevent recurrence. Chemo may be used in all stages of breast cancer. Though commonly used for those in stage two, three, or four, many stage one patients who can benefit from this therapy can be identified.

Schedules and types of chemotherapy:

Adjuvant or neoadjuvant
Stem cell and bone marrow transplant

Most common drugs used:

Adriamycin
Cytoxan
Methotrexate
5-Fluorouracil
Cytoxan
Taxol

Life during chemo can involve:

side effects (nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, etc.)
white and red blood cell booster shots
frequent blood tests (complete blood count)
blood transfusions
tumor marker tests

4) Targeted (Biologic) Therapies
These therapies are designed to disrupt those processes that contribute to the continued growth of cancer cells. Such therapies include:

Tykerb
Herceptin
Avastin
Iressa

5) Hormonal Therapy
Breast cancers are frequently dependent on estrogen for their growth. Anti-estrogen hormone therapy starves tumor cells of the estrogen they need to grow, resulting in cancer cell death. This type of therapy may be delivered before surgery, or concurrently with radiation. You may need to take hormonal therapy for five years after you're finished with primary treatment to prevent recurrence.

Hormone therapies can include:

estrogen receptor blockers (Tamoxifen, Raloxifene)
aromatase inhibitors (Aromasin, Arimidex, Femara)
oopherectomy (surgical removal of the ovaries)
chemical ovarian suppression (Faslodex)

What is Breast Cancer?
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Preventing Breast Cancer
.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer. Imaging, Pathology, Hormone Status, Staging

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Imaging, Pathology, Hormone Status, Staging

Diagnosis: Identification of a disease, based on signs and symptoms

Breast cancer isn't always detected with the naked eye. Its early signs are often hidden within your breast tissues. Changes to your breasts that you do see may not be the result of breast cancer at all. Lumps and bumps may come and go, as your hormones ebb and flow, and as you age. Breast skin may change texture due to sunburn, radiation treatments, or infections that cause rashes. So how would you know for sure whether or not a lump, skin rash, or skin dimpling is benign or cancerous? You will need help from your medical professionals to get a clear diagnosis.

Hands-on Screening
Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)

Women who are between 20 and 30 years old should have a clinical breast exam during their annual physical. If irregularities are found, a mammogram and ultrasound can help clarify the nature of the problem.

Getting the Right Picture: Imaging Studies

Mammograms
A mammogram is the gold standard for breast cancer screening and early detection. The American Cancer Society recommends that women 40 years old and up have an annual mammogram, though some other medical associations push that recommendation to age 50. Mammograms can help detect 85 to 90 percent of all breast cancers, even before you can feel a lump.

Having a Mammogram: Time your appointment for best results, bring your medical records, and know what to expect
Mammogram Views for Routine and Diagnostic Screening: Each of your breasts will be compressed and imaged twice
Mammogram Images, Descriptions and Details: See images of mammograms and what your radiologist will be checking for
Understanding Your Mammogram Report: Learn what may be on your imaging results report and what the medical terms mean to you
Findings on a Mammogram
- Cysts
- Calcifications
- Fibroadenomas
- Hematomas
- Tumors
- Implants
BIRADS – Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System: Your report will be rated by this system, and that rating will be included in your diagnosis

Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
A breast MRI reveals different details of your breast health than a mammogram, so it can be used as a complementary test. MRIs don’t use compression, like mammograms, but are much more expensive and not as widely available. Learn more about how mammograms and MRIs are different.

Elastography - Staying in Touch With Breast Cancer Detection and Diagnosis
Elastography is a new, though still investigational, technology for imaging breast tissue. It may be better than mammography, ultrasound, and MRI at distinguishing between benign and cancerous growths. Elastograms can find a cancerous lump without a biopsy.

Getting Inside the Problem: Pathology Tests
If a breast lump is suspicious, a sample of tissue or fluid must be taken and tested by a pathologist.

Fluid Tests:

Ductal Lavage: Screening for pre-cancerous and cancerous breast cells
Ductal lavage has been referred to as the "Pap smear for the breast." A tiny tube is inserted into the breast to draw fluid from the breast ducts, which is then examined under a microscope or screened for cancer cells. This is also an investigational screening technique.

Aspiration: During an aspiration, your doctor will use a fine needle to suction a sample of fluid from a lump, such as a cyst, to be screened.

Tissue Tests:

Breast Biopsy: A surgeon can remove a very small tissue sample from your breast. The tissue will be tested and examined under a microscope for cancer. There are three types of breast biopsy:

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA)
Core needle biopsy (CNB)
Stereotactic biopsy
Open biopsy, or surgical biopsy

Discovering What Fuels the Cancer

Hormone Status
Breast cancers are divided into two main types: estrogen receptor positive, and estrogen receptor negative. If you test positive for breast cancer, estrogen and progesterone biomarker test results appearing on your pathology report will help your physician determine which type of the disease you have. This information affects your treatment as well as your follow-up care.

HER2 Status
HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) protein can fuel the uncontrolled growth of a breast cancer tumor. Herceptin is used to treat this kind of breast cancer, in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. Lapatanib is also available for those who are HER2 positive. Knowing your HER2 status affects your diagnosis and treatment.

Getting the Overall Diagnosis
Breast Cancer Staging
Once all the test results are in, your doctor will summarize the diagnosis for you. Your cancer will be ranked in stages, once by your oncologist, and again by your radiologist. Knowing the stage of your breast cancer is critical to deciding on a course of treatment.

TNM System: Tumor Size, Node Status, Metastasis
Stages: Four Stages of Breast Cancer
Comparing Data: A Table of Stages and TNM Ranking

What is Breast Cancer?
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Treatments for Breast Cancer
Preventing Breast Cancer
.

Breast Cancer. Types of Breast Cancer, Definition, Common Symptoms

What is Breast Cancer?
Definition, Types of Breast Cancer, Common Symptoms

Breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) growth that begins in the tissues of the breast. Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow in an uncontrolled way. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, but it can also appear in men. In the U.S., it affects one in eight women.

The most common types of breast cancer are:
ductal carcinoma (85 - 90% of all cases)
lobular carcinoma (8% of all cases)

Invasive (Infiltrating) Breast Cancer
Invasive, or infiltrating, breast cancer has the potential to spread out of the original tumor site and invade other parts of your breast and body. There are several types and subtypes of invasive breast cancer.

Less common are:
inflammatory breast cancer (occurs in the skin)
Paget's disease of the nipple

Breast Cancer Symptoms and Explanations

A lump or a thickening in the breast or in the armpit:
Some lumps or swelling in the breast tissue may be due to hormonal changes. But if a lump or thickening persists, whether it is in the breast or in the armpit area, it may be a cause for concern. Swelling in the armpit, where the lymph nodes are located, may indicate that the body is fighting an invasion. A lump in the breast tissue may indicate a cyst, or it may indicate a problem in the duct or the lobes. See your doctor or nurse practitioner for a screening. Here is an overview of lumps.

A change in size or shape of the mature breast:
If a mature breast changes size or shape, and especially if only one breast is changing, it may signal that milk ducts or the lobes deeper within the breast are swelling. This could be due to fibrocystic or regular monthly hormonal cycles. If the changes are not in step with regular periodical changes, consult a health professional and get an exam. Having a baseline mammogram can help you and your doctor keep track of changes with accuracy.

Fluid (not milk) leaking from the nipple:
Between ages 41 - 58, there may be a small bit of non-bloody leakage from the nipples of both breasts. This leakage is usually due to hormonal changes and is not worrisome. However, if the fluid is leaking from only one nipple, is a new discharge, or is bloody, there are several tests that can be done to discover what is causing it. Ask your doctor for a professional opinion on your next steps.

Change in size or shape of the nipple:
Changes in body weight, or natural changes that come with age may affect the size or shape of the nipples. However, if a nipple retracts (pulls in) and does not easily return to its normal shape, see your doctor or a nurse practitioner for a manual exam. If there is a problem with the milk ducts which are just below the surface of the nipple and areola, then having a diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound can help diagnose the trouble.

Changes of color, shape or texture of the nipple or the areola:
If you observe dimples, puckers, or a rash on the skin of the nipple or the areola, (darker skin that surrounds the nipple) and these symptoms persist, or do not respond well to treatment creams, check with your doctor to determine what action to take. One unusual type of breast cancer is called Paget's disease, and starts out in the form of a rash. When caught and dealt with at an early stage, this is a very curable condition.

Unusual pain in the breast or in the armpit:
Know your cyclical pains, and note if breast pain occurs in tune with the monthly period, and in both breasts. While uncomfortable, if it is normal to you, it may not be worrisome. But if you have pain which occurs off-cycle or in only one breast or armpit, get it checked out. Keeping a good record of your cycles will help you understand hormonal changes in your breasts, and also helps your doctor and nurse determine what may be happening in your body.

Everything is Connected:
Our bodies go through cycles and changes, some of which are due to age, weight gain or loss, hormones, medications, pregnancy, stress, or changes in diet. Some of us are very aware of living in our bodies, while others of us live more in our minds or in our emotions. In order to have and keep our health, it's good to be aware of our body and its rhythms.

Just as getting a toothache can seem to make your entire head hurt, or pulling a muscle in your leg causes you to limp and throws you off balance, finding a change in your breast affects your overall health and may signal a need to get a checkup or a diagnostic screening.

Knowing your body's normal changes helps you deal wisely with your health. Regular communication with your health care team can allay fears and help you raise your defenses against disease.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Treatments for Breast Cancer
Preventing Breast Cancer

Friday, October 28, 2011

Eye Cancer. Causes, Symptoms, Treatment , Prevention

Melanoma of the Eye
The Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention of Melanoma of the Eye

Ocular melanoma, or melanoma of the eye, is a rare type of cancer that affects various parts of the eye, specifically the choroid, ciliary body, and the iris. Choroidal melanoma is the most common type of eye malignancy.

Many people are confused by the melanoma aspect of this type of eye cancer, as melanoma is most commonly associated with skin. Melanomas develop from melanocytes, cells that contain the dark pigment (melanin) that defines our skin coloring. Melanocytes aren't exclusive to the skin -- they can be found in the hair, the eyes, and the lining of some organs.

What Causes Ocular Melanoma?
Like many other types of cancer, we aren't quite sure what causes ocular melanoma, but there is suspicion that it is related to exposure to the UV rays of the sun. This theory has yet to be proven, however.

Even though the cause of ocular melanoma has yet to be pinpointed, researchers have identified risk factors for the disease. Risk factors for ocular melanoma include:

• being fair skinned or having a light hair color and eye color
• having dysplastic nevus syndrome, a condition that causes abnormal moles
• having oculodermal melanocytosis, a rare condition that causes increased and abnormal pigmentation of the eye and skin around the eye

Symptoms of Ocular Melanoma
There are sometimes no noticeable symptoms of ocular melanoma, especially in the early stages. In these instances, melanoma of the eye is usually diagnosed through a routine eye screening by an optician. Ocular melanoma symptoms include:

• blurred vision in one eye
• floaters (small "floating" spots in your vision field)
• change in iris color or dark spot on iris
• red and/or painful eye
• bulging eye
• loss of peripheral vision

Diagnosing Ocular Melanoma
Unlike other types of cancer, a biopsy is not usually needed for most cases of ocular melanoma. One of the first tests most people have is called an ophthalmoscopy, which uses a special scope to get an in-depth view of the eye. It is much like the tool your optician or physician uses to look at your eye. It is noninvasive and is painless.

An ultrasound may also be done to view the eye and surrounding structures. Numbing drops are given before the scan to prevent any discomfort. You may be asked to look in different directions to allow for different angles of viewing. Eye ultrasounds generally take about 15 minutes or less.

Other tests, like an MRI or CT scan, may be done if it is suspected that the cancer has spread beyond the eye. The liver is common site of metastasis for ocular cancer.

Treatment of Ocular Melanoma
Treatment of ocular melanoma is based on what part of the eye is affected and whether it has metastasized to other parts of the body. Surgery is a common method of treatment that involves removing part or all of the eye.

Removal of the eye (enucleation) may be necessary in some cases of large tumors when other treatment methods are not suitable. An artificial eye can be created in most cases. Prosthetic eyes today are much more realistic than in the past. They are created by talented, trained individuals called ocularists. It generally takes anywhere from 4 to 6 appointments to be fitted for a prosthetic eye and for it to be placed. Quality and artistic talent are two important characteristics to consider when choosing an ocularist.

Radiation therapy is also a common method treatment of ocular melanoma. It may be the sole treatment or done after surgery. There are two types of radiation therapy: external and internal. Both use specific types of energy to disrupt the activity of cancer cells to eliminate them and prevent them from undergoing cell division.

External radiation delivers radiation from a specialized machine that targets the tumor site externally. This method of radiation is specific and limits the damage to surrounding tissue.

Internal radiation (brachytherapy), often called plaque therapy when referencing the treatment of ocular melanoma, uses a radioactive "seed" or "plaque" that is implanted near the tumor site to deliver therapy. Normally, it remains implanted for about 7 days and is then removed.

Radiation therapy is effective against ocular melanoma, but does not come without side effects. Red, dry eyes are a common side effect. Cataracts sometimes result from therapy, but surgery may be an option to remove them. Eyelash loss and shortening may also occur. Less commonly, radiation therapy can cause optic nerve damage, glaucoma, and abnormal blood vessels in the retina.

How to Do a Testicular Self Exam

How to Do a Testicular Self Exam

Just as women need to do a monthly breast self exam(BSE), men need to do a self examination of their testicles. The testicular self exam helps men detect growths that could potentially be cancerous. Caught in the early stages, testicular cancer is almost always treatable.

Testicular cancer can be diagnosed in young men as young as 15 years of age. It is important for young males to learn about testicular health and the importance of doing a TSE regularly.
Difficulty: Average

Time Required: 10 minutes

Here's How:

1. Stand naked in front of a full length mirror. Elevate one leg to get a better view of the scrotum. Look for any swelling on the skin of the scrotum.
2. Now, carefully examine each testicle with both hands. Using your thumb and fingers, roll each testicle around. Feel for any lumps. They can be as small as a pea, painful, painless, or tender.
3. Be sure to examine both testicles. Remember that it is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other or hang a little lower.

Tips:

1. Perform the exam after a warm bath or shower. This allows the scrotum to relax, making it easier to find lumps or masses.
2. Be sure to perform the exam every month.
3. Always report any abnormal findings to your doctor. Lumps may be painless or painful. Both still require medical examination. Do not wait to see if lumps go away on their own. Early reporting to your doctor equals early detection. When caught early, testicular cancer is often curable.
4. You will find the cord-like structure on the top and back of the testicles. This is called the epididymis and is completely normal. This is not to be confused with a lump.

Source:
"Can Testicular Cancer be Found Early?". Detailed Guide: Testicular Cancer. American Cancer Society. 14 Nov 2007. Accessed 28 June 2008.
http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/TesticularCancer/DetailedGuide/testicular-cancer-detection


Testicular Cancer. Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Testicular Cancer - What Is Testicular Cancer?
Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention of Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the testicle(s) of men. It is considered to be uncommon, with about 8,000 men diagnosed each year. The good news is that this type of cancer is highly treatable and curable.

Causes and Risk Factors of Testicular Cancer
Although researchers cannot pinpoint exactly what causes testicular cancer, they have identified several known risk factors for the disease. A risk factor is something that increases the likelihood that you may develop a disease, but is not a guarantee you will get it. Risk factors include:

having had an undescended testicle, although if this is corrected early in life, the risk is reduced
having had abnormal development of the testicles
having a personal or family history of testicular cancer
being diagnosed with Klinefelter's syndrome
being infected with HIV
being Caucasian

Testicular Cancer Symptoms
Common symptoms of testicular cancer include:

painless lump in the testicle or both testicles; less commonly, the lump will cause pain
heaviness, or feeling of swelling in the scrotum
discomfort or pain in the scrotum
ache in lower back, pelvis or groin area
collection of fluid in the scrotum

Other conditions that have similar symptoms include a hydrocele, spermatocele, varicocele, and inguinal hernia.

Diagnosis of Testicular Cancer
There is currently not a standard testicular cancer screening test, so the onset of symptoms or findings from a testicular self exam are what normally begins the diagnostic process. If testicular cancer is suspected, further tests are necessary to make a diagnosis.

A physical exam is the first step in diagnosing testicular cancer. Your doctor will check your scrotum and feel the testicles for lumps, swelling, or tenderness. He may also check your abdomen for lymph node swelling.

Abnormal findings may lead to an ultrasound, which will give the doctor an internal view of testicular lumps. An ultrasound may be able to differentiate between a cancerous and benign condition. Blood tests may also be ordered to check for specific enzyme and protein levels in the blood. The presence and elevation of these proteins and enzymes can indicate a testicular tumor.

Diagnostic surgery to remove and biopsy the abnormal tissue is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis. In this procedure the tumor and the testicle are removed. The abnormal tissue is sent to the pathology lab, where it is examined under a microscope to screened for cancer.

If cancer is found, the stage of the disease is then determined. Staging refers to how far the cancer has spread to nearby tissue or possibly organs. If advanced testicular cancer is suspected, further evaluation, like imaging tests, may be necessary to determine the stage. Treatment options for testicular cancer vary based on the type and stage of the disease.

Treatment of Testicular Cancer
The primary methods of treating testicular cancer are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The type of testicular cancer, stage, and general health are factors that decide what treatment will be most effective.

Surgery. Removal of the testicle is a method of treatment for all stages of testicular cancer. For some men, surrounding lymph nodes may also be removed.

Radiation Therapy. Radiation therapy is also an option for treating testicular cancer. This type of treatment uses certain types high energy beams of radiation to shrink tumors or eliminate cancer cells. Radiation therapy works by damaging a cancer cell's DNA, making it unable to multiply. Although radiation therapy can damage nearby healthy cells, cancer cells are highly sensitive to radiation and typically die when treated. Healthy cells that are damaged during radiation are resilient and are often able to fully recover.

In cases of testicular cancer, external beam radiation therapy is often given after surgery to ensure all cancer cells and tissues that could not have been seen or removed is eliminated.

Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
How to Manage Skin Side Effects Caused by Radiation Therapy

Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is often used to treat testicular cancer that has spread beyond the testicle. Cancer is a result of cells that continue to multiply unnecessarily. Chemotherapy drugs work by eliminating these rapidly multiplying renegade cells. Other healthy cells multiply just as quickly, like hair follicle cells. Unfortunately, many chemotherapy drugs may not be able to discern the two, attacking healthy cells and causing side effects like hair loss.

Chemotherapy Side Effects
Hair Loss and Chemotherapy: Can It Be Prevented?
Combating Fatigue During Chemotherapy

Prevention of Testicular Cancer
Unfortunately, testicular cancer is a type of cancer that can't easily be prevented. There are simply no proven prevention methods.

With most cancers, the best method of prevention is to avoid the risk factors. There is no way to avoid the risk factors for testicular cancer because most are out of the person's control, like age, race, and conditions occurring at birth.

Sources:
"Do I Have Testicular Cancer?". Early Detection and Prevention. American Cancer Society. 02 Dec 2008. Accessed 19 June 2008.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/content/PED_2_3X_Do_I_Have_Testicular_Cancer.asp

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Colon Cancer Symptoms. A Word About Colon Cancer Symptoms

Colon Cancer Symptoms

A Word About Colon Cancer Symptoms:

Colon cancer does not always present symptoms in the early stages. Colon cancer symptoms usually do not appear until the disease has progressed into an advanced stage. This makes colon cancer screening highly valuable -- it can detect colon cancer in the early stages, before symptoms begin to appear.

Blood in Stool:
Blood in the stool is a common symptom of colon cancer, but you can't always actually see blood that may be in the stool. Tests like the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) detect blood in the stool that may be unseen to the naked eye. It is also associated with less severe health problems, such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Remember that some foods, like beets, watermelon, and red licorice can make the stools turn red. To be on the safe side, always report suspicious stool activity to your doctor.

• When Should You Worry About the Color of Your Stool?
• Causes of Red Stools

Thin Stools:
The size of our stool gives us good insight to what may be going on in our bowel. Thin or ribbon-like stools can indicate that there may be an obstruction -- something is blocking the passage of stool, like a tumor. Other conditions may also cause thin stools, like a large benign polyp or hemorrhoids.

How thin is too thin? A thin stool is considered to be as thin as a pencil. If consistently notice thinner stools, even if they aren't as thin as a pencil, let your doctor know.

• What is a Normal Bowel Movement?
• Causes of Bowel Obstructions

Constipation:
Constipation is a non-specific symptom of colon cancer. Frequent constipation can be the symptom of many things, more than likely a condition much less serious than colon cancer. However, chronic constipation can be serious, so it is important to let your doctor know. In reference to colon cancer, constipation occurs when a tumor is obstructing the colon.

• How to Eat When You Have Constipation
• What is the Treatment for Chronic Constipation?
• Prevent Constipation Before It Becomes a Problem

Feeling Like You Have to Empty Your Bowel, Even When You Don't:
If you feel like you have to empty your bowel, even after just doing so or simply feel like there is something in your bowel, talk to your doctor. This symptom can indicate the presence of a tumor, which causes the bowel to feel full, even when it is not.

• Bowel Incontinence Basics
• Exercises to Retrain the Bowel

Abdominal Pain:
Abdominal pain is also vague symptom. This usually occurs when the colon is blocked by a tumor. Gas pains are also common because tumor obstruction doesn't allow the gas to travel properly through the colon to exit the body.

• What Could Your Abdominal Pain Be?

Fatigue:
Fatigue that last more than a few days can indicate a medical problem. In relation to colon cancer, fatigue is often related to anemia, because of blood loss in the stool. Like other symptoms of colon cancer, fatigue is a vague symptom and can be related to many other less serious conditions.

• Could Your Fatigue Be a Symptom of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
• What to Do for Energy When You Are Tired
• How to Combat Fatigue Caused by Cancer

Talking to Your Doctor:
Many people feel shy to talk about bowel habits with their doctor. This can easily lead to a avoidable delay in diagnosing colon cancer. Remember, the earlier colon cancer is diagnosed, the easier it can be treated with a better prognosis.


Colon Cancer. Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention

Colon Cancer
The Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the large intestine. Our colons are about 6 feet long and allow waste to travel from the small intestine to the rectum. Like other organs in our body, the colon is vulnerable to many diseases and conditions, like cancer.
Colon Cancer Causes and Risk Factors
At this time, we can't exactly pinpoint what causes colon cancer, but we do know what may make our risk of developing colon cancer greater. Risk factors for colon cancer include:

Age. As you age, your risk for developing colon cancer increases. Colon cancer most often occurs in adults over the age of 50, but it can still occur in younger adults.

Race and Ethnicity. African Americans are at a greater risk of developing colon cancer than any other race, although it is unclear why. Ashkenazi Jews (Jews of European descent) are also at high risk of developing colon cancer. Several inherited genetic mutations have been found in Ashkenazi Jews, which greatly contributes to their increased risk.

Family Medical History. If you have a family history of colon cancer, you may be at a greater risk of developing the disease, too. A person does not need a family history of colon cancer to have colon cancer; it is most commonly diagnosed in those without a family history.

Personal Medical History. Having polyps, small growths in the colon, puts you at risk of developing colon cancer. Seventy percent to 90% of colon cancer cases develop from polyps, and having them removed reduces your risk of colon cancer. Once removed, they can return, which makes colon cancer screening a vital part of maintaining colon health. You are also more at risk if you suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a condition that causes the colon to become inflamed.

Genetics. Two inherited syndromes are commonly associated with a marked increase in colon cancer risk are familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer(HNPCC). About 5% of colon cancer cases are caused by a inherited syndrome. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a much less common syndrome that is also associated with colon cancer.

Other Identified Risk Factors: There are many other identified colon cancer risk factors, such as smoking cigarettes, consuming alcohol, level of physical activity, obesity, and diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.

Colon Cancer Symptoms
In the early stages, colon cancer usually doesn't have symptoms. As the disease progresses, which can take years, symptoms include:

blood in stool
persistent constipation, diarrhea, or other bowel changes
thinner stools
unexplained weight loss
abdominal pain and discomfort- generally feeling full, bloated, or cramping
abdominal tenderness or pain
fatigue

These colon cancer symptoms are not unique and can also be symptoms of many other conditions.

Colon Cancer Screening
Several screening methods are highly effective at detecting colon cancer. Colon cancer screening tests include:

Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy allows the doctor to get an in-depth view of the colon with the use of a colonoscope, a fiber optic tube that is attached to a microscopic camera that transmits live video feed to a monitor. The colonoscope is gently inserted into the anus and slowly to the colon, giving the doctor a full view of the rectum and large intestine. It is common to be nervous about a colonoscopy, so people are given a sedative prior to the procedure to aid in relaxation, and also to help the doctor complete the colonoscopy.

Sigmoidoscopy. Much like a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy is done with a flexible, lighted tube with an attached camera, but it is limited to only the lower part of the colon.

Barium Enema. During a barium enema, a doctor inserts liquid barium into the rectum. X-rays are taken of you laying several positions. The barium allows the colon to be viewed better on X-rays.

Fecal Occult Blood Test. A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) finds blood in your stool that you may not see with the naked eye or to confirm that it is actually blood in the stool that you may have seen. You are given a special kit to collect stool samples.


For adults who are at average risk of colon cancer, it is recommended to begin screening for colon cancer at age 50. Adults who are classified at higher risk may begin screening earlier at the recommendation of their doctor. Remember that even if you are not experiencing symptoms of colon cancer, you should always follow your doctor's colon cancer screening recommendations.

Diagnosing Colon Cancer
If a screening test reveals suspicious results, then a colon biopsy is done. A colon biopsy can be conveniently done during a colonoscopy or can also be done surgically. During a colon biopsy, small amounts of colon tissue are removed and then sent to a pathology lab to screen for evidence of cancer. If cancer is present, then the stage of colon cancer is then determined through colon cancer surgery to remove the cancer. Surrounding lymph nodes are tested and may also be removed during the surgery.

Treatment of Colon Cancer
Surgery. Most people with colon cancer will undergo some type of colon surgery. It is a common method of treatment and often accompanies another type of surgery. Types of surgery used to treat colon cancer include:

Local Incision and Polypectomy. In early stage colon cancer, a surgeon may be able to remove cancerous tissue without actually having to make an incision in the abdomen. Special instruments are inserted into the rectum to the colon cancer the cancer is removed. If the cancer is found in a polyp, then is it referred to as a polypectomy.

Surgical Resection. During a surgical resection, a surgeon removes part of the colon and then the colon is reconnected. This can be achieved through an abdominal incision, or for some people, laparoscopically. Laparoscopic assisted resection is a relatively new approach of performing a resection, so a surgeon experienced in this method is needed. It is not recommended for all people, more so for those with earlier stages of colon cancer. A colon resection is also called a colectomy or segmental resection. Several types of resections are performed based on the stage of colon cancer and other factors.

Resection and Colostomy.When the colon is not reattached during a resection, a colostomy is an option that provides an effective way for waste material to leave the body. The end of the large intestine is brought through the abdominal wall to an opening (a stoma) in the abdomen that allows waste material to drain into a bag, called a colostomy bag. A colostomy may be temporary or permanent.

Chemotherapy. The organs in our body are made up of cells. Cells divide and multiply as the body needs them. When these cells continue to multiply unnecessarily, the result is a mass or growth, also called a tumor. Chemotherapy drugs work by eliminating these rapidly multiplying renegade cells. Other healthy cells multiply just as quickly, like hair follicle cells. Unfortunately, many chemotherapy drugs may not be able to discern the two, attacking healthy cells and causing side effects like hair loss.

Chemotherapy for colon cancer may be advised in those with stage 2 colon cancer and in those suffering from stages 3 and 4. Chemotherapy for colon cancer may be prescribed before or after surgery and may also be given in conjunction with radiation therapy.

Radiation Therapy. Radiation therapy uses certain types high energy beams of radiation to shrink tumors or eliminate cancer cells. Radiation therapy works by damaging a cancer cell's DNA, making it unable to multiply. Although radiation therapy can damage nearby healthy cells, cancer cells are highly sensitive to radiation and typically die when treated. Healthy cells that are damaged during radiation are resilient and are often able to fully recover.

Two primary types of radiation therapy are external beam radiation therapy and internal beam radiation, also called brachytherapy. In colon cancer, external beam radiation is much more common than internal beam radiation.

Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
How to Manage Skin Side Effects Caused by Radiation Therapy

Colon Cancer Prevention
Regular colon cancer screening is key to preventing colon cancer. Screening can identify precancerous growths before they potentially progress into cancer. Keep in mind that it takes an average of 10 to 15 years for colon cancer to develop, so routine screening can detect these changes before they turn cancerous. Remember, for average risk people, colon cancer screening should begin at age 50.

Those who are at higher risk from family or personal history of polyps or colon cancer may want to consider genetic counseling to determine if they are a carrier of a mutated gene related to colon cancer. Knowing if you are a carrier can greatly influence how you manage your colon health.

Avoiding risk factors for colon cancer can also reduce your risk of developing the disease. Eating a balanced diet, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are all ways to reduce your risk of not only colon cancer, but many other conditions as well.

Sources:

"What is Colorectal Cancer: Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer." Colon Cancer Alliance. Accessed 06 July 2008.

Detailed Guide: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Are the Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. 7 Mar. 2006. 04 July 2008.

Overview: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Causes Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. 15 Mar. 2006. 04 July 2008.

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