Oncology: Modern technologies in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer

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Oncology: Modern technologies in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer

Section 1: Genetics and molecular cancer diagnosis

1. 1 The role of genes in the development of cancer:

   Cancer is a complex disease that develops as a result of the accumulation of genetic mutations, leading to uncontrolled growth and cell spread. These mutations can be inherited (herminal mutations) or acquired throughout life (somatic mutations). Genes involved in the development of cancer can be divided into several categories:

   • Oncogenes: Genes that contribute to the growth and division of cells. Mutations in oncogen can lead to their activation, which causes uncontrolled cell growth. Examples of oncogenes: MYC, RAS, ERBB2.

   • Tumor Suppressors genes: Genes that suppress the growth and division of cells. Mutations in tumor-sulfur genes can lead to their inactivation, which allows cells to grow and share uncontrolled. Examples of tumor-soup genes: TP53, RB1, Krca1, BRCA2.

   • DNA reparation genes: Genes that are responsible for correcting DNA damage. Mutations in DNA reparation genes can lead to the accumulation of mutations in other genes, increasing the risk of cancer. Examples of DNA reparation genes: MLH1, MSH2, MoH6, PMS2.

   • Genes participating in apoptosis: Genes that regulate the process of programmable cell death (apoptosis). Mutations in these genes can lead to the fact that the cells that were supposed to die continue to live and share, which contributes to the development of cancer.

   Understanding the role of genes in the development of cancer allows you to develop targeted treatment methods aimed at specific genetic mutations.

2. 2 Molecular diagnostic methods:

   Molecular diagnosis plays an important role in identifying genetic mutations, determining the prognosis of the disease and choosing the optimal treatment strategy. Modern methods of molecular diagnostics include:

   • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): A method that allows you to repeatedly increase the amount of a specific DNA section. PCR is used to detect mutations, determine the viral load and other goals. A variety of PCR is a quantitative PCR (KPCR), which allows you to determine the amount of certain DNA or RNA in the sample.

   • New generation sequencing (NGS): A method that allows you to determine the sequence of DNA or RNA with high speed and accuracy. NGS is used to detect mutations, determine the type of cancer and other goals. NGS allows you to simultaneously analyze a large number of genes, which makes it a powerful tool for diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

   • Fluorescence hybridization in situ (fish): A method that is used to detect certain areas of DNA or RNA in cells or tissues. Fish is used to determine the number of copies of genes, detect translocations and other goals.

   • Immunohistochemistry (IGC): A method that is used to detect certain proteins in cells or tissues. The IGC is used to determine the type of cancer, the prognosis of the disease and the choice of the optimal treatment strategy.

   • Liquid biopsy: A method that allows you to detect cancer cells or DNA in the blood or other biological fluids. Liquid biopsy can be used for early diagnosis of cancer, monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detection of relapse.

   These methods allow you to more accurately diagnose cancer, determine its subtype and identify genetic mutations that may be the goal of targeted therapy.

3. 3 The value of molecular diagnostics in personalized medicine:

   Molecular diagnosis is the basis of personalized medicine in oncology. It allows you to adapt treatment to the individual characteristics of the patient and his tumor. Information obtained using molecular diagnostics is used for:

   • Choice of optimal treatment strategy: For example, with breast cancer, determination of genes status ERBB2, IS, PR Allows you to determine whether hormone therapy or targeted therapy will be effective.

   • Forecasting the effectiveness of treatment: Some genetic mutations can predict how the patient will react to a certain type of treatment.

   • Identification of patients who can be useful in targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is aimed at specific molecular targets in cancer cells. Molecular diagnosis allows you to identify patients whose tumors have these targets.

   • Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment: Liquid biopsy allows you to monitor changes in the amount of cancer cells or DNA in the blood, which can be used to assess the effectiveness of treatment and detect relapses.

   Personalized medicine allows you to improve treatment results and reduce side effects, since treatment is selected individually for each patient.

Section 2: Modern visualization methods in oncology

2. 1 Computed tomography (CT):

   Computed tomography (CT) is a visualization method that uses x -rays to create detailed images of internal organs and tissues. CT is widely used in oncology for:

   • Cancer diagnostics: CT can help detect tumors in various organs, such as lungs, liver, kidneys and pancreas.

   • Cancer stadium: CT can help determine the size and spread of the tumor, which is important for determining the stage of cancer.

   • Assessments of treatment effectiveness: CT can help assess how effective treatment reduces the size of the tumor.

   • Radiation therapy planning: CT can help determine the exact position of the tumor for planning radiation therapy.

   Modern CT scanners allow you to get images with high speed and resolution, which allows you to reduce the dose of irradiation and improve the quality of images. Multi -detector CT (MDKT) allows you to receive three -dimensional images that can be used for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

3. 2 Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI):

   Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a visualization method that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of internal organs and tissues. MRI does not use ionizing radiation, which makes it safer than CT. MRI is widely used in oncology for:

   • Cancer diagnostics: MRI is especially useful for visualizing soft tissues, such as the brain, spinal cord, mammary gland and prostate iron.

   • Cancer stadium: MRI can help determine the size and spread of the tumor, especially in soft fabrics.

   • Assessments of treatment effectiveness: MRI can help assess how effective treatment reduces the size of the tumor.

   • Radiation therapy planning: MRI can help determine the exact position of the tumor for planning radiation therapy.

   Modern MRI scanners allow you to get images with high resolution and contrast, which can improve diagnosis and treatment planning. The use of contrasting substances can improve tumor visualization.

4. 3 Positron emission tomography (PET):

   Positron emission tomography (PET) is a visualization method that uses radioactive substances (radiopharmaceuticals) to create images of metabolic fabric activity. PET is widely used in oncology for:

   • Cancer diagnostics: PET can help detect tumors that are not visible on CT or MRI.

   • Cancer stadium: PET can help determine the spread of the tumor into remote organs.

   • Assessments of treatment effectiveness: PET can help assess how effective treatment affects the metabolic activity of the tumor.

   • Differential diagnosis: PET can help distinguish malignant tumors from benign.

   The most common radiopharmaceutical recruitment used in PET is fluentzoxyglucosis (FDH), which accumulates in cells with high metabolic activity, such as cancer cells. PET is often used in combination with CT (PET/CT) to obtain more accurate information about the position and metabolic activity of the tumor.

5. 4 Ultrasound examination (ultrasound):

   Ultrasound examination (ultrasound) is a visualization method that uses high -frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues. Ultrasound is a safe and non -invasive method that is widely used in oncology for:

   • Cancer diagnostics: Ultrasound can help detect tumors in various organs such as liver, kidneys, thyroid gland and mammary gland.

   • Biopsy under ultrasound control: Ultrasound can be used to send a needle for a biopsy to a suspicious area.

   • Assessments of treatment effectiveness: Ultrasound can help assess how effective treatment reduces the size of the tumor.

   • Cancer screening: Ultrasound is used to screening breast and prostate cancer.

   Doppler ultrasound allows you to evaluate blood flow in tumors, which can be useful for diagnosing and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment.

6. 5 Optical coherent tomography (OKT):

   Optical coherent tomography (OCT) is a visualization method that uses light to create images of tissue microstructure. OKT allows you to get images with high resolution comparable to histological examination. Oct is used in oncology for:

   • Cancer diagnostics: Oct can help detect cancer in the early stages, especially in the skin, mucous membranes and eyes.

   • Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment: Oct can help evaluate how effective treatment affects the microstructure of tissues.

   • Surgical intervention planning: Oct can help determine the boundaries of the tumor to plan surgical intervention.

   OCT is a non -invasive method that can be used to diagnose and monitor cancer in real time.

Section 3: Modern cancer treatment methods

3. 1 Surgical treatment:

   Surgical treatment is one of the main methods of cancer treatment. The purpose of surgical treatment is to remove the tumor and surrounding tissues affected by cancer. Modern surgical methods include:

   • Minimum invasive surgery: Minimum invasive surgery, such as laparoscopy and thoracoscopy, uses small cuts and special tools to remove the tumor. This allows you to reduce pain, blood loss and recovery time after surgery.

   • Robotized surgery: Robotized surgery uses a surgeon robot to perform surgery. The robot allows the surgeon to perform more accurate and complex manipulations, which can improve the results of the operation.

   • Organ -preserving operations: Organ -preserving operations are aimed at removing the tumor, while maintaining the maximum possible amount of healthy tissue. This allows you to improve the quality of life of patients after surgery.

   • Reconstructive operations: Reconstructive operations are used to restore the appearance and function of organs affected by cancer. For example, the reconstruction of the mammary gland after mastectomy.

4. 2 Radiation therapy:

   Radiation therapy uses ionizing radiation to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used both independently and in combination with other treatment methods, such as surgery and chemotherapy. Modern methods of radiation therapy include:

   • Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT): 3D-CRT uses computer modeling for the exact direction of rays to the tumor, minimizing the effect on the surrounding healthy tissues.

   • Intensively modulated radiation therapy (IMRT): IMRT allows you to change the intensity of rays during irradiation, which allows you to more accurately aim at the tumor and avoid damage to healthy tissues.

   • Volume-modulated arc therapy (VMAT): VMAT is a variety of IMRT, which uses a continuous rotation of the radiation source around the patient to deliver a dose.

   • Stereotactic radiation therapy (SBRT): SBRT uses high doses of radiation aimed at a tumor with high accuracy. SBRT can be used to treat small tumors in the lungs, liver and other organs.

   • Brachitherapy: Brachitherapy uses radioactive sources that are placed directly in the tumor or next to it. This allows you to deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumor, minimizing the effect on the surrounding healthy tissues.

5. 3 Chemotherapy:

   Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used both independently and in combination with other treatment methods, such as surgery and radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is usually prescribed in cycles, with periods of relaxation between cycles, to give the body time for recovery.

   There are various types of chemotherapeutic drugs that act according to different mechanisms. Some drugs damage DNA of cancer cells, others prevent cell division, and others block the growth of blood vessels that feed the tumor.

   Chemotherapy can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss and a decrease in immunity. However, modern treatment methods allow you to soften these side effects.

6. 4 Target therapy:

   Targeted therapy uses drugs that are aimed at specific molecular targets in cancer cells. These targets can be proteins involved in growth, division or spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapy can be more effective than chemotherapy and cause less side effects, since it more selectively affects cancer cells.

   Examples of targeted drugs include:

   • Tyrosinkinase inhibitors: Block the activity of tyrosinkinase, enzymes that are involved in the growth and division of cells.

   • Ingibitors MTOR: Block the activity of MTOR, a protein that regulates cell growth.

   • VEGF inhibitors: Block the activity of VEGF, a protein that stimulates the growth of blood vessels that feed the tumor.

   • Monoclonal antibodies: They are associated with certain proteins on the surface of cancer cells, causing their destruction or blocking their function.

   Targeted therapy is usually used in combination with other treatment methods such as surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

7. 5 Immunotherapy:

   Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to combat cancer. Immunotherapy can be used both independently and in combination with other treatment methods. Immunotherapy includes:

   • Inhibitors of control points of immunity: They block proteins that suppress the immune response, allowing the immune system to attack cancer cells. Examples of inhibitors of control points of immunity include anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies.

   • Car-T-cell therapy: The patient’s T-lymphocytes are modified in the laboratory so that they express a chimary antigenic receptor (CAR), which allows them to recognize and attack cancer cells.

   • Oncolytic viruses: Viruses that selectively infect and destroy cancer cells.

   • Cancer vaccines: They stimulate the immune system for the attack of cancer cells.

   Immunotherapy can cause side effects, such as autoimmune reactions, but they are usually treated.

8. 6 Hormonal therapy:

   Hormonal therapy is used to treat cancers, which are sensitive to hormones, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer. Hormone therapy can block the production of hormones or block their effect on cancer cells.

   Examples of hormonal therapy include:

   • Anti -estrogens: The effect of estrogens on the cancer cells of the mammary gland is blocked.

   • Aromatase inhibitors: Reduce the production of estrogens in the body.

   • Antiandrogen: The effect of androgens is blocked on the cancer cells of the prostate gland.

   • LGRG agonists: Reduce testosterone production in the body.

Section 4: New Technologies and Prospects in Oncology

4. 1 Nanotechnology in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer:

   Nanotechnologies use materials and devices on a nanometer scale (1-100 nanometers). Nanotechnologies have a potential for improving the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

   • Nanoparticles for diagnosis: Nanoparticles can be used to deliver contrasting substances to tumors, which can improve visualization on CT, MRI and PET. Nanoparticles can also be used to detect cancer cells in the blood or other biological fluids.

   • Nanoparticles for drug delivery: Nanoparticles can be used to deliver drugs directly to cancer cells, which allows you to increase the effectiveness of treatment and reduce side effects.

   • Nanoparticles for hyperthermia: Nanoparticles can be heated using an external magnetic field or laser, which leads to the death of cancer cells.

5. 2 Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in oncology:

   Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (MO) can be used to analyze large volumes of data, such as genetic data, images and clinical data. AI and MO can help:

   • In early cancer diagnosis: AI can be used to analyze the images of CT, MRI and PET to detect cancer in the early stages.

   • In predicting the risk of cancer development: AI can be used to analyze genetic data and clinical data to evaluate the risk of cancer in individuals.

   • In choosing the optimal treatment strategy: AI can be used to analyze genetic data, clinical data and data effectiveness to choose the optimal treatment strategy for each patient.

   • In the development of new drugs: AI can be used to identify new molecular targets for the development of new drugs.

6. 3 Genes editing (CRISPR-CAS9) in oncology:

   CRISPR-CAS9 is a genes editing technology that allows you to change DNA with high accuracy. CRISPR-CAS9 can be used for:

   • Inactivations oncogenov: CRISPR-CAS9 can be used to inactivation of oncogenes, which can stop the growth of cancer cells.

   • Restoring the function of tumor-soup genes: CRISPR-CAS9 can be used to restore the function of tumor genes, which can suppress the growth of cancer cells.

   • Creating immune cells that attack cancer cells: CRISPR-CAS9 can be used to modify immune cells so that they more effectively attack cancer cells.

   CRISPR-CAS9 technology is located in the early stages of development, but it has a great potential for the treatment of cancer.

7. 4 3D printing in oncology:

   3D-packets can be used to create three-dimensional objects from various materials, such as plastic, metal and biomaterials. 3D packets can be used in oncology for:

   • Creating individual implants: 3D printing can be used to create individual implants that exactly correspond to the patient’s anatomy.

   • Creation of surgical models: 3D-packets can be used to create surgical models that allow surgeons to plan complex operations.

   • Creating drugs: 3D printing can be used to create drugs with individual doses and forms.

   • Creating bio -articular organs: 3D-pricing can be used to create bio-articular organs that can be used to replace damaged organs.

8. 5 Tesnostic:

   Therapy is a combination of diagnosis and therapy in one approach. Therapy agents allow you to visualize and treat cancer simultaneously. For example, nanoparticles can be used to deliver a radioactive isotope to a tumor, which allows you to visualize the tumor and at the same time irradiate it.

Section 5: Cancer Prevention

5. 1 Primary prevention:

   Primary prevention is aimed at preventing cancer. She includes:

   • Refusal of smoking: Smoking is one of the main causes of lung cancer, mouth, pharynx, esophagus, bladder and other organs.

   • Healthy nutrition: Proper nutrition, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can reduce the risk of cancer.

   • Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises can reduce the risk of breast cancer, colon and other organs.

   • Vaccination: Vaccination against the human papilloma virus (HPV) can prevent the development of cervical cancer, vagina, anus and oral cavity. Hepatitis B vaccination can prevent the development of liver cancer.

   • Avoiding excessive exposure to solar radiation: Excessive exposure to solar radiation increases the risk of skin cancer.

   • Alcohol use restriction: Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing liver, breast, colon and other organs.

6. 2 Secondary prevention:

   Secondary prevention is aimed at early detection of cancer. She includes:

   • Breast cancer screening: Mammography is recommended for women over 40 years old for the early detection of breast cancer.

   • Frequency of cervical cancer: The papa test is recommended for women for the early detection of cervical cancer.

   • Tolstoy cancer screening: Colonoscopy is recommended for people over 50 for the early detection of colon cancer.

   • Prostate cancer screening: A blood test for a prostatic specific antigen (PSA) and a finger rectal examination is recommended for men over 50 for the early detection of prostate cancer.

   • Self -study: Regular self -examination of the mammary gland, skin and other organs can help detect cancer in the early stages.

7. 3 Treetic prevention:

   Tertiary prevention is aimed at preventing cancer relapse and improving the quality of patients of patients after cancer treatment. She includes:

   • Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation helps patients restore the physical and emotional function after the treatment of cancer.

   • Psychological support: Psychological support helps patients cope with stress and anxiety associated with cancer.

   • Life change change: A change in lifestyle, such as refusal of smoking, healthy nutrition and regular physical exercises, can help prevent cancer relapse.

   • Regular observation: Regular observation helps to identify cancer relapse in the early stages.

Section 6: Psychological support of cancer patients

6. 1 The importance of psychological support:

   The diagnosis of “cancer” has a deep effect on the mental and emotional state of a person. Patients can experience a wide range of emotions, such as fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, depression and a sense of isolation. Psychological support plays an important role in helping patients to cope with these emotions and adapt to life with cancer.

   Psychological support can help patients:

   • Cope with stress and anxiety.
   • Improve mood and reduce depression.
   • Improve the quality of life.
   • Improve commitment to treatment.
   • Improve relations with family and friends.
   • Find the meaning and goal in life after cancer.

7. 2 Psychological support methods:

   There are many methods of psychological support that can be useful for cancer patients. These methods include:

   • Individual psychotherapy: Individual psychotherapy helps patients explore their thoughts, feelings and behavior associated with cancer, and develop strategies for overcoming difficulties.

   • Group psychotherapy: Group psychotherapy provides patients with the opportunity to communicate with other people who experience the same thing. This can help patients feel less isolated and receive support from others.

   • Family therapy: Family therapy helps patients and their families communicate with each other and solve the problems associated with cancer.

   • Supporting groups: Supporting groups provide patients with the opportunity to share their experience and receive support from other patients.

   • Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga and breathing exercises, can help patients reduce stress and anxiety.

   • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT helps patients change negative thoughts and behavior that can contribute to depression and anxiety.

   • Art Therapy: Art therapy uses creative methods such as drawing, painting and sculpture to help patients express their feelings and emotions.

   • Music therapy: Music therapy uses music to help patients relax, reduce pain and improve their mood.

8. 3 The role of family and friends:

   Family and friends play an important role in the provision of psychological support to cancer patients. They can provide emotional support, practical help and companion. It is important that family and friends are aware of the patient’s needs and are ready to support him.

   Family and friends can help the patient:

   • Listening to him and showing sympathy.
   • Offering practical assistance, such as cooking, house cleaning and transport.
   • Accompanying him to the doctor’s tricks.
   • Encouraging him to participate in the activities that he likes.
   • Supporting his positive attitude.

Section 7: Palliative help in oncology

7. 1 Palliative Assistance goals:

   Palliative assistance is a specialized medical care aimed at improving the quality of life of patients and their families faced with problems related to lifting diseases such as cancer. Palliative assistance can be provided at any stage of the disease, starting from the moment of diagnosis to the end of life.

   Palliative care goals include:

   • Relief of pain and other symptoms: Palliative assistance is aimed at relieved pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, shortness of breath, constipation and other symptoms that can occur in cancer patients.

   • Improving the quality of life: Palliative help is aimed at improving the physical, emotional, social and spiritual well -being of patients.

   • Support for patients and their families: Palliative assistance provides patients and their families with emotional support, information and resources necessary for making informed decisions on treatment and care.

   • Assistance in making decisions on treatment: Palliative help helps patients understand treatment options and make decisions corresponding to their goals and values.

   • Providing comfortable and decent care at the end of life: Palliative assistance provides patients with comfortable and decent care at the end of life, taking into account their desires and preferences.

8. 2 Palliative Assistance team:

   The palliative care team usually consists of doctors, nurses, social workers, psychologists and other specialists who work together to provide patients and their families with comprehensive assistance.

   Members of the palliative care team can:

   • Assess the symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
   • Prescribe drugs to relieve pain and other symptoms.
   • Provide emotional support and counseling.
   • Help patients and their families make decisions on treatment and care.
   • Coordinate patient care in various conditions, such as a hospital, house or hospice.

9. 3 Hospice help:

   Hosprication is a specialized type of palliative care, which is provided to patients with the terminal stage of the disease, when treatment is no longer effective. The hospice assistance is aimed at providing comfortable and decent care at the end of life.

   Hosprication can be provided in the hospital, at home or in a specialized hospice. The hospice help includes:

   • Relief of pain and other symptoms.
   • Emotional and spiritual support.
   • Support for the patient and friends of the patient.
   • Body care after death.

Section 8: Rehabilitation after cancer treatment

8. 1 The importance of rehabilitation:

   Cancer treatment can cause various side effects, such as fatigue, pain, weakness, lymphedem, cognitive impairment and emotional problems. Rehabilitation helps patients restore the physical, emotional and social function after the treatment of cancer.

   Rehabilitation can help patients:

   • Improve physical strength and endurance.
   • Reduce pain and other symptoms.
   • Improve mobility and coordination.
   • Improve cognitive function.
   • Cope with emotional problems.
   • Return to work and other activities.
   • Improve the quality of life.

9. 2 Rehabilitation methods:

   There are many methods of rehabilitation that can be useful for cancer patients. These methods include:

   • Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy helps patients to improve physical strength, endurance, mobility and coordination.

   • Trudewotherapi: Cabinettherapy helps patients return to work and other activities.

   • Lymphodrenazhny massage: Lymphatic drainage massage helps to reduce swelling associated with the lymph.

   • Cognitive rehabilitation: Cognitive rehabilitation helps patients improve cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and concentration.

   • Psychological support: Psychological support helps patients cope with emotional problems associated with cancer.

   • Nutrition consultations: Food consultations help patients to improve their nutrition and cope with the side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea and loss of appetite.

   • Speech therapy: Speech therapy helps patients improve speech and swallowing after the treatment of cancer of the head and neck.

10. 3 Rehabilitation team:

    The rehabilitation team usually consists of doctors, physiotherapists, labor -therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, social workers and other specialists who work together to develop and implement an individual rehabilitation plan for each patient.

Section 9: The future of oncology

9. 1 Forecasting and early diagnostics:

   In the future, it is expected that thanks to the development of technologies such as liquid biopsy, artificial intelligence and nanotechnology, it will become possible to predict the risk of cancer and to identify it in the earliest stages, when it is still well lend itself to treatment.

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