What is cancer? What are tumors and why do they form? Tumors are swollen masses of tissue that originate from uncontrolled division of cells. Some are malignant, while others are benign. Tumors may be solid or liquid, depending on their type. A solid tumor is defined as a solid mass without a liquid region. These types of cancers are often referred to as “infiltrating” cancers because they are found in the lymphatic system.
A doctor will begin your diagnosis by asking about your symptoms and medical history to determine the cause of your cancer. From there, the doctor will order various tests to determine a treatment plan. Some cancers may develop without any symptoms, and the diagnosis may occur during a routine medical exam for another condition. Screening tests are also used to detect cancer in otherwise healthy people. Pap tests are one of these screening tests. Cancer can be detected in other parts of the body when the cells grow out of control.
In order to detect cancer, doctors must first determine the primary site. Cancer may develop in any body tissue, including organs, bones, or muscles. The cells that cause cancer can start anywhere in the body, and many times spread from the primary site to other parts of the body. Cancer is called primary by its primary site; when a tumour starts in the lung, it can spread to the liver. The cancer is still classified as lung cancer, even though it has spread to other parts of the body.
Despite the fact that the condition may be inoperable, the majority of cancers do not require treatment. Surgical removal is one of the most common methods of treatment for a benign tumor, which does not spread. Once removed, these tumors are unlikely to return. In addition to surgery, some cancers may become premalignant or malignant. Patients with a family history of cancer should report any new symptoms to their doctor.
There are three main types of precancerous cells that have been associated with a higher risk of developing into cancer. These include atypia, hyperplasia, and dysplasia. Hyperplasia means the cells are dividing at a faster rate than normal. They have more cells than normal, and they are called cancer-related precancerous lesions. Atypia is a mild form of precancerous changes that does not affect nearby tissues.
Treatment for cancer varies depending on its stage, location, and overall health of the patient. The common treatment methods include chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and targeted/biological therapies. Other treatments include hematopoietic stem cell transplants, immunotherapy, cryosurgery, and photodynamic therapy. The most effective treatment for cancer will depend on the size and location of the tumor, the type of cancer, and the spread of the disease.
