Question

Pathophysiology class

answer all quistions

no hand writing please

Case Studies Case Study 1 A routine mammogram showed a large mass in the right breast of Mrs. H, age 42 years. A biopsy confirmed the presence of a malignant tumor. Mrs. H was concerned because her mother and an aunt had had breast cancer. No metastases were detected at this time. A mastectomy was performed, and a number of axillary and mediastinal lymph nodes were removed. Pathologic examination showed that several nodes from each area contained malignant cells. Given that this case was considered to be stage III, it was recommended that Mrs. H have chemotherapy and radiation treatment following surgery and later have her ovaries removed to reduce her estrogen levels. Discussion Questions 1. Discuss the differences between a malignant and benign tumor and how they may be used in diagnosing the cancer. (See Characteristics of Malignant and Benign Tumors.) 2. Discuss what other signs and symptoms Mrs. H may expect to experience if the tumor returns. (See Pathophysiology, Local Effects of Malignant Tumors, Systemic Effects of Malignant Tumors.) 3. Other than the biopsy used in this case, discuss what other diagnostic tests could have been used to diagnose the cancer. (See Diagnostic Tests.) 4. Discuss the reasons why the axillary lymph nodes were removed and it was recommended that the patient continue with chemotherapy and radiation. (See Spread of Malignant Tumors.) 5. Discuss the different treatments that the patient is going through, including advantages and disadvantages of each type and overall prognosis. (See Treatment.)

Answer 1

Answer: The benign tumor is a non cancerous cells which don't spread around the tissues and body. It can be diagnosed by physical examination, X- rays and mammogram. Whereas, the malignant tumor is a cancerous which spreads the tissues and spread over boody. The diagnosis can be performed by Biopsy and staging method.

The sign and symptoms that Mrs. H may expect to experience if the tumor returns as pain in the same area, fluid discharge as well as lump formation.

The other diagnosis can be performed such as X-ray, mammogram etc.

The axillary lymph nodes is removed in the breast cancer as in the case of mastectomy. If it is not removed the cancerous cell may transfer to the fluid present in the sac.