Oncology and Cancer

SURGERY

• Procedures performed to collect biopsy and determine presence of cancer:
  • Incisional biopsy: in this procedure only part of the tumor is removed.
  • Excisional biopsy: in this procedure the entire malignant tumor is removed.
  • Needle biopsy: used to collect a sample from the site suspected to have cancer. Helps determine the presence of malignant cells.
• Treatment surgery is used to remove the cancer and lymph nodes nearby.
• Reconstructive surgery is used to rebuild the body part that was removed.
• Palliative surgery used to manage the pain and ease cancer to a degree.
• Preventive surgery proactive removal of the tissue that is at high risk for developing cancer.

Targeted therapies

Designed for each individual, because not all treatments work for everyone.

• Small-molecule drugs are used for targets that are inside cells.
• Monoclonal antibodies are lab made to attach to specific targets found on cancer cells so they can be better identified and destroyed by the immune system.

Resources

• Palliative Care: Specialized medical care that helps provide patients with relief from the stress and symptoms of serious illness.
• Clinical Trials: Research studies that examine different medical treatments, strategies, and devices to determine if they are safe for use.
• Cancer Patient Support Groups: Emotional support group specifically for cancer patient to share feelings and learn from others with similar experiences.