Month: January 2023

What You Need to Know About Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Acoustic neuroma?

Acoustic neuroma, also known as vestibular schwannoma, is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that develops on the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain.

Symptoms

The signs, diagnosis, and treatment of acoustic neuroma vary depending on the size and location of the tumor.

The most common signs of acoustic neuroma include:

  • hearing loss
  • ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
  • balance problems
  • facial weakness
  • facial numbness
  • headaches
  • dizziness

These symptoms may develop gradually over time and may be experienced on only one side of the body. As the tumor grows, symptoms may become more severe.

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis and treatment prevent complications and preserve hearing and balance function.

Diagnosing acoustic neuroma is often done through imaging tests. An MRI is the most commonly used imaging test for detecting acoustic neuromas, as it can provide detailed images of the inner ear and brain.

Treatment

Treatment options for acoustic neuroma depend on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient’s age, overall health, and symptoms. Small tumors not causing significant symptoms may be monitored closely with regular imaging and hearing tests without needing immediate treatment.

Larger tumors or those causing significant symptoms may require treatment such as surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of both.

Surgery, also known as microsurgery, is the most common treatment for acoustic neuroma. Surgery aims to remove the tumor while preserving as much normal tissue as possible. Surgery can be done through several different approaches.

Radiation therapy, also known as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT), uses focused beams of radiation to kill the cancer cells in the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This non-invasive treatment option is typically reserved for patients who are not good candidates for surgery or those who prefer a less invasive option.

Acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is a slow-growing tumor that develops on the main nerve from your inner ear to your brain. While vestibular schwannomas are usually noncancerous, they can cause serious symptoms, such as hearing loss, balance problems, and tinnitus. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor so they can rule out other potential causes and provide the proper treatment. Treatment options for acoustic neuroma include observation, surgery, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapy.

No matter what treatment option you choose, working with a team of experienced medical professionals is important to ensure the best possible outcome.

What You Need to Know and How to Help Someone Diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)?

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. It is known by the inflammation of the breast tissue. IBC is a rare form of breast cancer, accounting for only 1-5% of all breast cancer cases. It’s caused by the cancer cells blocking the lymphatic system in the breast, which causes its classic symptoms.

Risk factors

The exact cause of IBC is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified.

  • Female sex
  • Being aged 40-50 years old
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Family history of breast cancer
  • Being African American

Symptoms

Symptoms of IBC are often different from other types of breast cancer. These can include:

  • Swelling of the breast
  • Warmth and redness to the breast
  • Breast skin changes, such as dimpling or thickening, like an orange peel
  • Itching
  • Swollen lymph nodes under the arm
  • Nipple inversion

Anyone experiencing these symptoms may at first think they have an infection in the breast. However, they should seek evaluation urgently to rule out the presence of IBC.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of IBC is typically made through a combination of physical examination, imaging studies, and biopsy. A biopsy will be done to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the cancer type.

Treatment

Treatment for IBC typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may also be used. The specific treatment plan will depend on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.

It is important to note that IBC is an aggressive form of breast cancer, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are needed for a good outcome. People with symptoms of IBC should immediately seek medical attention and discuss any concerns with their doctor.

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare but serious type of cancer that affects the skin and tissue of the breast. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with IBC, it’s important to get familiar with the facts and understand what treatment and support options are available. There are many ways to help someone manage IBC, from providing emotional support to helping them access financial assistance and practical resources. By educating yourself on this disease and its impact, you can be a powerful advocate for those who need it most.

What is Appendiceal cancer?

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Appendiceal cancer?

Appendiceal cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the appendix, a small pouch-like organ located at the beginning of the large intestine. The exact cause of appendix cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of its development.

Risk Factors

  • Increasing age
  • Family history of appendix cancer or colon cancer
  • Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition that increases the risk of developing various types of cancer.

Symptoms

The symptoms of appendiceal cancer may vary from person to person. The most common symptoms of appendiceal cancer include the following:

  • Abdominal pain is often described as a dull, aching pain that can be severe and is not relieved by rest or over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Blood in the stool
  • Feeling full or bloated
  • Feeling full quickly after eating

Diagnosis

When someone presents to their healthcare provider with the above symptoms, a variety of things can be done to find the source of the symptoms.

Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds can be used to evaluate the abdomen and determine if a tumor is present. These imaging studies can also be done to see if there has been any spread of cancer to other areas of the body.

Ultimately a biopsy will need to be taken to determine if cancer is present. This may need to be done in a surgical procedure to get to the appendix.

Treatment

Once appendiceal cancer has been diagnosed and staged, a treatment plan can be developed. The treatment plan will vary depending on the stage and location of cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient.

  • Surgery: Surgery to remove the appendix and any nearby lymph nodes is a treatment for appendix cancer. Depending on the cancer stage, a larger portion of the colon may also need to be removed.
  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or in combination with surgery. With surgery, chemotherapy is heated and instilled into the abdominal cavity.

If you have been diagnosed with appendiceal cancer or are at risk of developing it, it is important to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare team.

How Early Detection Can Transform the Outlook of Ewing’s Sarcoma in Children and Young Adults

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Ewing’s sarcoma?

Ewing’s sarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of soft tissue sarcoma most often found in children and young adults. The exact cause of Ewing’s sarcoma is unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of its development.

It causes the development of tumors of the bones of the arms, legs, hands, feet, chest, pelvic bones, and skull. It can also cause tumors in the soft tissue of the abdomen, trunk, arms, and legs.

Risk Factors

  • Age: Ewing’s sarcoma is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults between the ages of 10 and 20.
  • Family history: Ewing’s sarcoma has been shown to have a genetic component, so individuals with a family history of the disease may be at a higher risk of developing it.
  • Male sex
  • Exposure to radiation

Symptoms

The exact symptoms of Ewings sarcoma can vary based on the tumor’s location. Some of the most common symptoms can include:

  • Bone pain: Bone pain is the most common symptom of Ewing’s sarcoma. The pain is often described as a dull, aching pain that can be severe and is not relieved by rest or over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Swelling: Swelling and tenderness may occur in the area of the tumor.
  • Fractures: Ewing’s sarcoma can weaken the bone, making it more prone to fractures.
  • Fatigue, weight loss, and fever can also occur

Diagnosis

  • Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans can help identify the presence and location of a tumor.
  • Biopsy: A biopsy, in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the suspected tumor, is often done to confirm the diagnosis of Ewing’s sarcoma.

Treatment

It is important to note that the treatment plan will vary depending on the stage and location of cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient.

Surgery to remove the tumor is the most common treatment for Ewing’s sarcoma. The type of surgery will depend on the tumor’s location and may include amputation of the affected limb.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or in combination with surgery.

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often given in combination with radiation therapy. High doses of chemotherapy followed by a stem cell transplant may sometimes be needed.

Immunotherapy is another option, which uses the immune system to help fight off cancer cells.

Early detection is critical in the fight against Ewing’s sarcoma. When this cancer is caught early, the survival rate jumps from 50% to over 90%. This makes routine screenings and check-ups crucial for children and young adults who are at risk. If you or someone you know has symptoms of Ewing’s Sarcoma, don’t delay in getting a diagnosis. The earlier this cancer is caught, the better the prognosis will be.

Understanding Vaginal Cancer – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of the vagina. This type of cancer is most commonly found in women over 60. However, it can occur in women of any age. The exact cause of vaginal cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of its development.

Risk Factors

  • Increasing age
  • HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that can cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer.
  • Smoking or other tobacco use
  • History of cervical or vulvar cancer
  • History of radiation therapy to the pelvic area for other cancers

Symptoms

The symptoms associated with vaginal cancer can vary for each woman, and may not be the same for all. The most common symptoms associated with vaginal cancer include:

  • Vaginal bleeding: Vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause, is one of the most common symptoms of vaginal cancer.
  • Vaginal discharge: Vaginal discharge that is abnormal in color, consistency, or smell may be a symptom of vaginal cancer.
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Vaginal itching or burning
  • Vaginal lump or mass
  • Constipation

Diagnosis

If a woman has any of the symptoms experienced above, she may seek evaluation by her healthcare provider. A variety of things can be done to evaluate these symptoms.

A pelvic exam is usually the first step in diagnosing vaginal cancer. The healthcare provider will look for any abnormalities in the vaginal area.

A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the abnormal area and examined under a microscope. This can be done for any suspicious areas seen by the healthcare provider. This ultimately confirms a cancer diagnosis.

Imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or PET scans may be done to better look at cancer and determine how far it has spread.

Treatment

Treatment options for vaginal cancer include:

  • Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for vaginal cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the stage of cancer and may include removal of the cancerous tissue, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), or removal of lymph nodes.
  • Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or in combination with surgery.
  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or in combination with radiation therapy.

The treatment plan will vary depending on the stage and location of cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment can greatly improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Women need to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors associated with this disease. Early detection is key to successful treatment and survival rates. If you have any concerns about your health, please speak with your doctor.

What You Need to Know About Penile Cancer – Causes and Symptoms to Be Aware Of

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Penile cancer?

Penile cancer is a rare type of cancer that can grow on the skin and tissues of the penis. It is most common in older men and those with certain risk factors.

Risk factors

Risk factors for penile cancer include:

  • HPV infection: HPV is a type of virus that is linked to an increased risk of penile cancer as well as other cancers.
  • Phimosis: Men with phimosis (a condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted) have an increased risk of penile cancer.
  • Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene practices can increase the risk of penile cancer.
  • Smoking: Men who smoke or use other forms of tobacco have an increased risk of penile cancer.
  • Age: Penile cancer is more common in older men.
  • Not being circumcised
  • Weakened immune system

Symptoms

Symptoms of penile cancer can include:

  • A lump or sore on the penis (may or may not be painful)
  • Thickening of the skin on the penis
  • Changes in the color of the penis
  • Persistent itching or discharge
  • Pain or bleeding with erection
  • An ulcer on the penis
  • Lumps in the groin (enlarged lymph nodes)

Diagnosis

When someone presents to their healthcare provider with symptoms of penile cancer, an examination will likely be done.

The official diagnosis of penile cancer is usually made through a tumor tissue biopsy. Additional testing, such as imaging studies and blood tests, may also be done to determine the cancer stage and check for the disease’s spread.

Treatment

Treatment for penile cancer depends on the cancer stage and the tumor’s location. Surgery is usually the first line of treatment to remove as much of the tumor as possible. This could include removing only a few layers of skin or a more involved surgery up to needing full surgical removal of the penis.

Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also kill cancer cells and prevent the tumor from recurring.

For superficial cancers, topical treatments may be used to treat cancer.

Penile cancer is a rare but serious type that can majorly impact a man’s life. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors to catch them early and get treatment. If you are concerned about penile cancer, talk to your doctor.

Understanding Myeloproliferative Neoplasm and Its Treatment Options

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What are Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs)

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a group of blood cancers that affect the bone marrow and the blood cells it produces. They lead to the abnormal growth of one or more types of blood cells that the bone marrow produces, including white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets. MPNs include conditions such as:

  • Polycythemia vera (PV)
  • Essential thrombocythemia (ET)
  • Myelofibrosis

Risk factors

Risk factors for MPNs include:

  • exposure to radiation
  • exposure to certain chemicals such as benzene
  • having a family history of the disease
  • Tobacco use
  • Exposure to pesticides and fertilizers

Symptoms

Symptoms of MPNs vary depending on the type of MPN, but common symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Night sweats
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Itching
  • Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)
  • Bone pain
  • Blood clots
  • Bleeding or bruising easily
  • Bone marrow transplant

Diagnosis

The ultimate diagnosis of MPNs usually requires a combination of blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing. Blood tests can help to identify the type of MPN and the level of certain blood cells. A bone marrow biopsy can help to confirm the diagnosis of MPN and to stage the disease.

Genetic testing can help identify specific genetic mutations associated with MPNs.

Sometimes imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound may be needed to evaluate the body’s organs, such as the spleen or liver.

Treatment

Treatment for MPNs depends on the type of MPN and the stage of the disease. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and to reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots and bleeding. Treatment options include:

  • Medications to lower blood counts
  • Medications to stimulate blood counts
  • Steroids
  • Phlebotomy (removing blood if there are too many red blood cells)
  • Interferon treatment
  • Splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen)
  • Targeted therapy (medication to target specific genetic mutations)

 

In summary, MPN is a group of blood cancer disorders that affect the bone marrow and the production of blood cells. Although there is no cure for MPN, treatments are available to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of developing more serious complications. It is important to work with a healthcare team experienced in managing MPN to develop the best treatment plan for you.

 

Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumors (DSRCT): Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What are Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumors?

Desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCTs) are a rare and aggressive type of soft tissue sarcoma. The tumors typically develop in the abdomen and can spread to other body parts, such as the lungs, liver, and lymph nodes. DSRCTs are often difficult to diagnose and treat and have a poor prognosis.

This type of tumor is mostly found in White males between the ages of 10 and 30 years old.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCTs) can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, but some common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain or swelling
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Abdominal mass or lump
  • Blood in stool or urine
  • Shortness of breath (if the tumor has spread to the lungs)
  • Jaundice (if the tumor has spread to the liver)
  • Swelling of the legs or arms (if the tumor has spread to the lymph nodes)

Diagnosis

DSRCTs are often challenging to diagnose because of how they appear on imaging. Ultimately, a diagnosis is made through a biopsy of the tumor tissue.

Imaging studies. Imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans can be used to see the presence of a tumor and to determine its size and location. These imaging studies can also help to determine if the tumor has spread to other parts of the body.

Biopsy. A biopsy is the removal of a small sample of tissue from the tumor for examination under a microscope to look for the presence of cancer cells.

Genetic testing. Genetic testing can be performed on the tumor tissue to detect the specific genetic changes that are seen with this type of cancer. This testing helps to confirm the diagnosis of DSRCT.

Treatment

The treatment of DSRCTs is often complex and can involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Surgery is typically the first treatment used, and it is used to remove as much of the tumor as possible. However, due to the aggressive nature of the tumors, complete surgical removal may not be possible, and the tumors can come back after surgery.

Chemotherapy is often used to shrink tumors and help control the disease’s spread. Radiation therapy may also be used to shrink the tumors and help control the disease’s spread. However, due to the aggressive nature of the tumors and the poor prognosis, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are not always effective.

Desmoplastic small round cell tumors are a type of cancer that can be difficult to treat. While several treatment options are available, the best course of treatment will depend on the individual case. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with DSRCT, it is important to discuss all available options with a medical professional.

Understanding Anal Cancer – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Anal Cancer?

When the cells of the anus become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably, anal cancer develops. The anus is the part of the intestine that opens to the outside of the body, allowing fecal material to pass through. Factors that can increase someone’s risk of developing anal cancer include:

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
  • HIV infection
  • Smoking
  • Taking medication to suppress the immune system
  • Anal sex
  • Anal warts

Symptoms

The symptoms of anal cancer can vary for each person, but the following is a list of some of the most common symptoms associated with anal cancer.

  • Bleeding when having a bowel movement
  • Itching around the anal area
  • Loss of control of bowel movements
  • Enlarged lymph nodes noted in the groin
  • Discharge from the anus
  • Change in the size of the stool
  • Difficulty passing stool

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of anal cancer is often made after seeking advice from the healthcare team about symptoms that may have been experienced. If your healthcare provider has concerns about the possibility of anal cancer, there can be a variety of tests that can be done.

A physical exam is done to evaluate the area of concern and inspect for any abnormal findings. An exam may occur in which the healthcare provider places a finger in the anus and rectum to feel for any lumps or masses and inspect for bleeding. Lymph nodes in the groin may be felt to see if they are enlarged.

Imaging studies may also be needed. These imaging tests may include the following:

  • X-ray
  • Computed tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Positron emission tomography (PET)
  • Ultrasound

A person with suspected anal cancer will likely be referred to a gastroenterologist for further testing. These tests, such as anoscopy or endoscopy, are done using a camera to look into the anus and rectum to inspect the area visually.

If suspicious tissue is found, a biopsy will be taken to be evaluated under the microscope to look for the presence of cancer cells. If cancer is confirmed, these cancerous cells will be tested to see if HPV is present.

Once anal cancer is diagnosed, it must be staged to determine how far the cancer has spread or if it is just in the anus.

Treatment

Treatments for anal cancer often consist of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy and can be used alone or in combination with each other. The final treatment plan is developed based on the stage of the cancer.

Anal cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening. However, it is also very treatable, especially when caught early. Be sure to see a doctor if you are experiencing any anal cancer symptoms so that you can get the treatment you need as soon as possible.

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