17.9 Summary
Cancer is a group of diseases in which cells escape from the usual regulatory
factors controlling cell division and proliferate to form tumors. Cells from
tumors may break free and move through the blood and lymph to establish
tumors at distant sites. Cancer is ultimately caused by successive mutations
in the DNA that confer a selective advantage to the cancer cells. Examples of
genes which, when mutated, may give rise to cancers include cellular proto-
oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Mutations may be caused by chemical
carcinogens or radiation, by oncogenic viruses or by intrinsic failures of DNA
repair mechanisms. Some gene mutations that predispose to cancer are
inherited. Examples include mutated forms of the BRCA1 andBRCA2 genes
which predispose women to cancers of the breast and/or ovaries.
Diagnosis of cancer depends on the location and symptoms produced by the
tumor. A whole battery of diagnostic procedures may be used, including tumor
imaging, histological examination of tumor biopsies and immunoassays for
tumor associated markers. Treatments for cancer include chemotherapy,
radiation therapy and immunotherapy. In addition, hormone therapy may be
useful for cancers of the prostate and breast.
QUESTIONS
- Which of the following is the odd one out?
a) Epstein-Barr virus;
b) HIV;
c) Kaposi’s virus;
d) human papilloma virus;
e) human T-cell leukemia virus.- Which of the following statements is incorrect?
a) A benign tumor does not metastasize.
b) Oncogenes may be found in certain viruses.
c) Tumor suppressor genes control cell division.
d) Cancer may be treated with cytotoxic drugs.
e) Leukemic cells originate in the blood.SUMMARYCZhhVg6]bZY!BVjgZZc9Vlhdc!8]g^hHb^i]:YLddY *&&
Giles is a 14-year-old boy who, until recently, was a
normal adolescent who loved sports, especially soccer.
During the last few weeks, however, Giles has been
feeling unwell. He has only played soccer twice in the
last four weeks and, each time, he felt too tired during
the first half to carry on for the whole match. Giles’
mother noticed her son’s tiredness and worried about
the number of coughs and colds he suffered. However,
when she noticed a number of large bruises on his legs
and torso, she decided to take him to see his doctorwho took a sample of blood for a full blood and platelet
count. The blood count indicated a leukocytosis, with
numerous blast cells present. Platelet numbers were
reduced and there were indications of anemia.Questions(a) What disorders might be suspected?(b) What further tests would confirm or refute your
suspicions?