Cancer (tumor)

About Cancer (tumor)

Cancer is characterized by an abnormal growth and spread of cells. Cancer is not a single disease. It can affect virtually any organ or tissue in the body. Its aggressiveness is highly variable, ranging from aggressive and rapidly life-threatening to slow-growing with little impact on health.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the cancer. The most common are fatigue, ,bloody stool or a change in bowel or urinary habits, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, a breast lump and breathing problems.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Lab and imaging tests are done to define the extent of the cancer. Frequently a biopsy is performed to identify the type of cancer.

Common tests: Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, MRI, Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound, X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment depends on the location and extent of the cancer and may include: surgery, radiation therapy, hormone treatments and/or chemotherapy. For more information contact the Cancer Information Service (CIS) at http://www.cancer.gov or (800)422-6237 American Cancer Society: (800)227-2345

Medical specialties

Oncology · Pediatric Hematology and Oncology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cancer (tumor).