principles of oncology

PRINCIPLES OF ONCOLOGY
Learning objectives
To understand the biological nature of cancer
To understand the principles of cancer prevention and early detection
To know the principles of cancer etiology and the major causative factors
To know The likely shape of future developments in cancer management
To know The multidisciplinary management of cancer
To know The principles of palliative care
What is cancer

The name ‘cancer’ comes from the Greek and Latin words for a crab, and refers to the claw-like blood vessels extending over the surface of an advanced breast cancer.
Cancer cells are psychopaths. They have no respect for the rights of other cells. Their proliferation is uncontrolled; their ability to spread is unbounded. Their inexorable, relentless progress destroys first the tissue and then the person.
Malignant transformation
Establish an autonomous lineage: a- resist signals that inhibit growth. b- acquire independence from signals stimulating growth
Obtain immortality
Evade apoptosis
Acquire angiogenic competence
Acquire the ability to invade
Acquire the ability to disseminate and implant
Evade detection/elimination
Genomic instability
Jettison excess baggage
Subvert communication to and from the environment
Develop ability to change energy metabolism