Author: Julie Scott, DNP

Julie is an oncology certified Oncology Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of medical oncology experience. In addition to her clinical work, she is an accomplished healthcare writer providing oncology content for various publications. She also serves as an adjunct faculty member for a Master's nursing program and a chair for Doctoral nursing students.

Retinoblastoma – The Rare Eye Cancer

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Retinoblastoma?

Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that develops in the retina. The retina is the part of the eye that converts light into signals the brain uses to see. It is most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 5, but can also occur in older people.

Risk factors

Risk factors for retinoblastoma include:

  • Having a family history
  • Inherited genetic mutations
  • Exposure to chemicals during pregnancy
  • Radiation exposure to their father

Symptoms

Symptoms of retinoblastoma can include:

  • A white pupil in photographs
  • Eye redness or pain
  • A crossed eye or lazy eye
  • Vision loss
  • Bulging of the eye
  • Bleeding in the eye

Diagnosis

Any of the above symptoms noted in children should be reported to their healthcare provider quickly. This can lead to prompt evaluation with specialized eye exams and vision tests.

Other imaging studies may be used and can include ultrasound and MRI.

For most cancers, performing a biopsy to get a tissue to test for the presence of cancer cells is done. However, this can be a very risky procedure for retinoblastoma. Because of this, it is often diagnosed by eye exams and other imaging tests.

Treatment

Treatment for retinoblastoma depends on the stage and location of cancer, the patient’s age, and overall health. Treatment options include eye-saving treatments such as:

  • Laser therapy
  • Cryotherapy (killing cancer cells by freezing them)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy

Other, more invasive treatment options can include surgical removal of the affected eye (enucleation) or removal of the entire eye and surrounding tissue (exenteration).

Retinoblastoma is a rare eye cancer that can affect children of all ages. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the best possible outcome. If you or your child have any symptoms of retinoblastoma, please see an ophthalmologist immediately.

Understanding Neurofibromatosis (NF): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Neurofibromatosis (NF)?

Neurofibromatosis (NF)  is a genetic disorder affecting nerve cell growth and development. It is characterized by the development of benign tumors called neurofibromas on nerve tissue and other symptoms.

There are three types of neurofibromatosis: NF1, NF2, and Schwannomatosis. NF1 is the most common type of neurofibromatosis and is caused by a mutation in the NF1 gene. The condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that an affected individual has a 50% chance of passing the mutation on to each of their children.

NF2 is caused by a mutation in the NF2 gene. The condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Schwannomatosis is caused by a mutation in either the SMARCB1 or LZTR1 gene. It is also inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.

Symptoms

Each type of neurofibromatosis can have somewhat different symptoms. Some of these symptoms can include:

  • Skin pigment changes
  • Multiple cafe-au-lait spots on the skin
  • Multiple neurofibromas (tumors that develop along nerves) in multiple areas of the body
  • Bone abnormalities
  • Pain
  • Weakness

The tumors associated with neurofibromatosis are non-cancerous (benign), but some may have an increased cancer risk. Where the neurofibromas develop and how large they become can lead to other symptoms.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of neurofibromatosis is based on clinical symptoms and evaluation of the tumors. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis. Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans can also be used to evaluate the size and location of tumors.

Treatment

Treatment for neurofibromatosis depends on the type and severity of the symptoms. In some cases, no specific treatment may be needed other than observation.

For others, surgery may be used to remove tumors causing pain or other problems.

In 2020, medication was approved to treat NF1 in children over 2 with certain types of tumors. The medication, Koselugo, works by blocking an enzyme the tumors need to grow.

 

NF can be a mild condition or one that causes severe disability. There is currently no cure, but treatments are available to manage symptoms and help people with NF live full lives. With early diagnosis and treatment, most people with NF have a good prognosis. If you or someone you know has signs or symptoms of NF, make an appointment with your doctor.

Understanding Medulloblastoma – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments Explained

Posted on by Julie Scott, DNP

What is Medulloblastoma?

Medulloblastoma is a type of cancerous brain tumor. It is a tumor that grows quickly in the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination. Medulloblastoma is most commonly found in children, but adults can experience this as well.

Symptoms

The symptoms of medulloblastoma can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, but common symptoms include the following:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness and loss of balance
  • Changes in vision
  • Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
  • Difficulty walking
  • Seizures
  • Learning and memory problems

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of medulloblastoma is usually made when someone presents to their healthcare team with the above symptoms. To start the evaluation, imaging studies will likely be ordered. These scans, such as CT or MRI scans, can help see the tumor in the brain. Additional testing may also be done to determine the tumor’s stage and check for the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.

Ultimately, a tumor biopsy will need to be done to determine what the tumor is. The biopsy may be done as part of the surgical treatment or before surgery in a separate procedure.

Treatment

Treatment for medulloblastoma typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is usually the first line of treatment to remove as much of the tumor as possible.

Radiation therapy is used to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery and to prevent the tumor from coming back.

Chemotherapy kills cancer cells that may have spread to other body parts.

Medulloblastoma is a type of brain cancer that can be difficult to treat. However, with new advancements in medical technology, more options are available for treatment than ever before.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with medulloblastoma, it is important to seek the best possible treatment option and have a robust support system throughout the process.

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.

Feedback/Question

We would love to hear your thoughts or questions.

Please fill and submit the form below and one of our program evangelists will reach out to you shortly.
Protected by reCAPTCHA
Terms of Service& Privacy Policy

Thank you for recommending your support group!
We will be reaching out to invite your group to participate in our network.

Request to Access was submitted

A specialist with this email already exists in cancerGO

Request Physician/Specialist Access

We are excited about your interest in cancerGO! Physicians/specialists provide deep insights, novel clinical methods, and invaluable advice to patients, their loved ones, and the broader community.

Please fill below to request early access and we will get back to you shortly with further details.
Protected by reCAPTCHA
Terms of Service& Privacy Policy