| disease | Cancer |
| summary | Cancer is a broad group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. It arises from mutations in DNA that disrupt normal cell cycle regulation, leading to abnormal cell division. |
| name | Cancer |
| type | Neoplastic disease |
| classification | | broad classification | Malignant neoplasms | | specific classifications | Extremely diverse; classified by the tissue of origin (e.g., lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia). Subtypes exist based on specific genetic and molecular characteristics. |
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| symptoms | | common | | 1 | Fatigue | | 2 | Unexplained weight loss | | 3 | Pain | | 4 | Skin changes (e.g., lumps, sores) | | 5 | Changes in bowel or bladder habits | | 6 | Persistent cough or hoarseness | | 7 | Unusual bleeding or discharge |
| | less common | | 1 | Fever | | 2 | Nerve problems | | 3 | Numbness | | 4 | Swelling | | 5 | Anemia |
| | note | Symptoms vary greatly depending on the type and stage of cancer. Many cancers have no noticeable symptoms in their early stages. |
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| signs | | common | | 1 | Lumps or masses | | 2 | Changes in size or appearance of existing moles or growths | | 3 | Abnormal bleeding or discharge from any orifice | | 4 | Skin lesions | | 5 | Swelling | | 6 | Nerve impingement |
| | note | Many cancers have no visible signs initially. |
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| causes | | primary | | 1 | Genetic mutations (inherited or acquired) | | 2 | Exposure to carcinogens (chemicals, radiation, viruses) | | 3 | Lifestyle factors (diet, smoking, lack of exercise) | | 4 | Chronic inflammation | | 5 | Hormonal imbalances |
| | note | The exact cause of cancer is often multifactorial. |
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| detailed etiology pathogenesis | Cancer development is a multi-step process involving multiple genetic alterations and cellular changes. Specific mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation, evasion of apoptosis (programmed cell death), sustained angiogenesis (blood vessel formation), limitless replicative potential, tissue invasion, and metastasis. Different cancers have distinct molecular pathways involved in their development, making treatment strategies specific to the type of cancer. |
| investigations | | 1 | Biopsy | | 2 | Imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, MRI, PET scans) | | 3 | Blood tests (e.g., complete blood count, tumor markers) | | 4 | Genetic testing | | 5 | Endoscopy |
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| treatment options | | 1 | Surgery | | 2 | Radiation therapy | | 3 | Chemotherapy | | 4 | Targeted therapy | | 5 | Immunotherapy | | 6 | Hormone therapy | | 7 | Palliative care |
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| differentials | Conditions that present with similar symptoms to cancer. Diagnosis requires a complete assessment and testing to distinguish from other possible causes. |
| prevention | | lifestyle factors | | 1 | Healthy diet | | 2 | Regular exercise | | 3 | Avoidance of tobacco use | | 4 | Sun protection | | 5 | Vaccination (e.g., HPV) | | 6 | Screening for certain cancers (e.g., colonoscopy) |
| | early detection | Regular checkups and screenings can improve early detection, which often improves outcomes. |
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| prognosis | Prognosis varies significantly based on cancer type, stage, and individual patient factors (age, overall health). Early detection and effective treatment can significantly improve the chances of survival and quality of life. |
| other important details | | 1 | Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. | | 2 | Advances in diagnostic and treatment technologies are continuously improving outcomes. | | 3 | Support groups and palliative care can improve the experience of cancer patients and their families. |
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