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Cancer - Symptoms and Diagnosis of Cancer

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Estimated time: 8 minutes
CBSE: Class 12
CISCE: Class 12

Symptoms of Cancer

Cancer may present with local or systemic symptoms.

A. Local Symptoms

Local symptoms arise in or near the affected organ or tissue.

  • Persistent cough. 
  • Indigestion. 
  • Constipation or diarrhoea. 
  • Abdominal pain. 
  • Pain or difficulty during urination. 
  • Blood or mucus in urine or faeces. 
  • A lump that can be felt under the skin, in the breast, or in another body part. 

B. General or Systemic Symptoms

These symptoms are usually noticed in later stages or when the disease begins to affect the body more widely.

  • Loss of appetite. 
  • Unexplained weight loss. 
  • Tiredness or weakness. 
  • Persistent pain. 
  • Jaundice in some cases. 
  • Mood changes. 
  • Epileptic-type fits in certain conditions.
CBSE: Class 12
CISCE: Class 12

Detection and Diagnosis of Cancer

1. Biopsy:

biopsy is the removal of a small piece of suspected tissue for examination. It is one of the most important diagnostic methods for confirming cancer. 

2. Histopathological Study:

A histopathological study means microscopic examination of tissue to identify abnormal or cancerous cells. This method helps confirm the nature of the disease. 

3. Blood and Bone Marrow Examination:

In leukaemias, blood tests and bone marrow examination may show abnormally increased cell counts. These tests are useful in diagnosing blood cancers. 

4. Imaging Techniques:

Radiography and advanced imaging are used to detect cancers inside the body and to observe tissue changes. 

Technique Basic Principle Main Use in Diagnosis Imp Point
X-ray / Radiography Uses X-rays Detects internal abnormalities Useful for internal body examination. 
CT Scan Three-dimensional imaging using X-rays Gives a more detailed internal view Helpful in locating internal growths and tissue changes. 
MRI Uses a strong magnetic field and non-ionising radiations Detects changes in internal organs and tissues Does not use ionising radiation. 

5. Antibody-Based Detection:

Antibodies against cancer-specific antigens are used in detecting some forms of cancer. This method helps identify disease markers associated with tumour cells. 

6. Molecular Diagnosis:

Molecular biology techniques can detect genes linked with inherited susceptibility to cancer. Individuals with such risk can be advised to avoid exposure to certain carcinogens. 

CBSE: Class 12
CISCE: Class 12

Key Points: Symptoms and Diagnosis of Cancer

  • Cancer is detected through biopsy (tissue sample stained and examined under a microscope), histopathological studies, and blood/bone marrow tests (for leukaemia).
  • CT scan uses X-rays to produce 3D images of internal organs; MRI uses strong magnetic fields and non-ionising radiation to detect tissue changes.
  • Antibodies against cancer-specific antigens are also used for detecting certain cancers.
  • Molecular biology techniques identify genes associated with inherited cancer susceptibility, helping in early prevention.
  • Individuals with inherited cancer susceptibility are advised to avoid specific carcinogens, e.g., tobacco smoke in case of lung cancer.
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