Tumour

Definition of Tumour:
A tumor, also known as neoplasm, is an abnormal growth of cells that form
a mass or lump. These cells can grow and divide uncontrollably, and they
may continue to accumulate without stopping. Tumors can be benign or
malignant. Benign tumors are usually non-cancerous and do not spread to
other parts of the body, while malignant tumors are cancerous and have the
potential to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body
through a process called metastasis. Tumors can occur in any part of the
body and can affect different organs and tissues. The causes of tumors are
often complex and may include genetic mutations, environmental factors, or
a combination of both.
Or
An abnormal mass of tissue that forms when cells grow and divide more
than they should or do not die when they should. Tumors may be benign
(not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Benign tumors may grow large but do
not spread into, or invade, nearby tissues or other parts of the body.

Types of Tumour:
Tumours can be classified into two main types: Benign and Malignant.
1. Benign tumours: Benign tumours are non-cancerous growths that do
not spread to other parts of the body. They grow slowly and do not
invade nearby tissues or organs. Examples of benign tumours include
moles, fibroids, and lipomas.
2. Malignant tumours: Malignant tumours, on the other hand, are
cancerous growths that have the potential to invade nearby tissues and
spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or
lymphatic system. Examples of malignant tumours include lung
cancer, breast cancer, and colon cancer.

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Malignant tumours are further classified into subtypes based
on the type of cells they originate from. Some of the common
types of malignant tumours include;

 Carcinoma: A malignant tumour that originates in epithelial cells,

which are the cells that cover the surface of the body or line the
internal organs. Examples include lung cancer, breast cancer, and
prostate cancer.
 Sarcoma: A malignant tumour that originates in connective tissues
such as bones, muscles, and cartilage. Examples include
osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma.
 Leukemia: A type of cancer that originates in blood-forming cells in
the bone marrow and results in the overproduction of abnormal white
blood cells.
 Lymphoma: A type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic
system, which is part of the immune system. Examples include
Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
 Brain tumours: Tumours that originate in the brain or the
surrounding tissues. Examples include glioblastoma and meningioma.

Causes of Tumor:
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Tumors, also known as neoplasms, can arise from various causes. Here are
some common factors that can contribute to the development of tumors,
1. Genetic mutations: Changes in the DNA sequence can cause
abnormal cell growth and division, leading to tumor formation. These
mutations can be inherited or acquired during a person's lifetime.
2. Age: As people age, the risk of developing tumors increases. This
may be due to a decline in the body's ability to repair damaged DNA
or other cellular damage.
3. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors,
such as tobacco smoke, radiation, chemicals, and viruses, can
increase the risk of developing tumors.
4. Hormones: Certain hormones can stimulate the growth of cells,
which can lead to the formation of tumors. For example, estrogen can
promote the growth of breast and uterine tissue, which can increase
the risk of breast and uterine tumors.
5. Immune system disorders: People with weakened immune systems
are at a higher risk of developing tumors because their immune
system is less able to detect and destroy abnormal cells.

Signs and Symptoms of Tumour:

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Tumors can develop in any part of the body and can have different signs and
symptoms depending on their location, size, and type. Here are some
general signs and symptoms of tumors:
1. Pain: Pain is a common symptom of tumors. It can be persistent or
intermittent, dull or sharp, and can be localized or spread to other
parts of the body.
2. Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak even after adequate rest can be a sign
of a tumor. This is because tumors can consume the body's energy
reserves.
3. Unexplained weight loss: Unintentional weight loss can be a sign of
a tumor. Tumors can cause changes in appetite and metabolism,
leading to weight loss.
4. Changes in skin: Changes in the color, texture, or appearance of the
skin can be a sign of skin cancer.
5. Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Tumors that develop in the
digestive or urinary system can cause changes in bowel or bladder
habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or blood in the urine.
6. Swelling: Tumors can cause swelling in the affected area. For
example, a brain tumor can cause swelling in the brain, which can
lead to headaches and vision problems.
7. Difficulty swallowing or breathing: Tumors that develop in the
neck or throat can cause difficulty swallowing or breathing.
8. Changes in menstrual cycle: Tumors that develop in the
reproductive system can cause changes in the menstrual cycle or other
reproductive symptoms.

Pathophysiology of Tumour:
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Tumors are abnormal growths of cells that can develop in any part of the body.
The pathophysiology of tumors involves a series of complex events that lead to
the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of cells, eventually forming a mass or
lump. Here are the key steps involved in the pathophysiology of tumors,
1. Initiation: Tumor initiation is the first step in the pathophysiology
of tumors. It involves the genetic or epigenetic changes in normal
cells that result in the transformation of these cells into tumor
cells. These changes can be caused by various factors, including
exposure to carcinogens, radiation, viruses, or inherited genetic
mutations.
2. Promotion: After initiation, the tumor cells undergo a process of
promotion, which involves further genetic or epigenetic changes
that enhance their growth and proliferation. This process is driven
by various growth factors and cytokines that promote cell division
and prevent cell death.
3. Progression: As the tumor cells continue to grow and divide, they
acquire additional mutations that enhance their ability to invade
surrounding tissues and metastasize to other parts of the body.
This process is known as tumor progression, and it is driven by a
variety of factors, including genetic instability, immune
suppression, and changes in the tumor microenvironment.
4. Angiogenesis: As the tumor grows, it requires a blood supply to
provide oxygen and nutrients to the rapidly dividing cells. To
achieve this, the tumor cells secrete growth factors that stimulate
the formation of new blood vessels, a process known as
angiogenesis.
5. Metastasis: Metastasis is the process by which tumor cells break
away from the primary tumor and spread to other parts of the body
via the bloodstream or lymphatic system. This is a complex
process that involves the detachment of tumor cells from the
primary tumor, invasion of the surrounding tissue, entry into the

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 bloodstream or lymphatic system, and colonization of a distant
site.
Risk factors of Tumour:

Tumours, also known as neoplasms, are abnormal growths of cells that can
develop in various parts of the body. There are many different types of
tumours, and the risk factors for each can vary. However, there are some
general risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing tumours:
 Age: As we get older, the risk of developing tumours increases.
 Genetics: Certain genetic mutations can increase the risk of
developing tumours. For example, mutations in the BRCA1 and
BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of breast and
ovarian cancers.
 Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors
can increase the risk of developing tumours. For example, exposure to
radiation or certain chemicals can increase the risk of developing
cancer.
 Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors can increase the risk of
developing tumours. For example, smoking can increase the risk of
lung cancer, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk
of liver cancer.
 Medical history: Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of
developing tumours. For example, people with a history of
inflammatory bowel disease have an increased risk of developing
colon cancer.
.

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Complications of Tumour:

Tumors, also known as neoplasms, can lead to a wide range of

complications, depending on their location, size, and type. Here are some
common complications associated with tumors:
1. Compression of adjacent organs: Tumors that grow in or near
vital organs, such as the brain or lungs, can put pressure on
surrounding tissues and organs, causing pain, dysfunction, or even
organ failure.
2. Metastasis: Some types of tumors have the ability to spread to
other parts of the body, a process called metastasis. Metastatic
tumors can cause additional complications in other organs and
tissues.
3. Obstruction of ducts or vessels: Tumors can grow in or near
ducts or vessels, blocking the flow of fluids or blood. For example,
a pancreatic tumor can obstruct the bile duct, leading to jaundice
and liver damage.
4. Hormone imbalances: Some tumors produce hormones or
hormone-like substances that can cause a variety of symptoms,
such as hyperthyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, or acromegaly.
5. Immune system dysfunction: Tumors can weaken the immune
system, making it harder for the body to fight infections or other
diseases.
6. Malnutrition: Tumors can interfere with the body's ability to
digest and absorb nutrients, leading to malnutrition and weight
loss.
7. Pain: Tumors can cause pain directly by pressing on nerves or
indirectly by producing inflammation or infection.

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 8. Psychological distress: The diagnosis and treatment of tumors
can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety,
depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
9. Treatment-related complications: Treatments such as
chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery can cause side effects,
including nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, and infection.

Prevention of Tumour:

There are several measures that can be taken to help prevent the
development of tumors. Here are a few key strategies:
1. Healthy lifestyle choices: Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits,
vegetables, and whole grains, maintaining a healthy weight,
getting regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and excessive
alcohol consumption are all important steps in preventing tumors.
2. Regular screenings: Regular cancer screenings can help detect
tumors early when they are more easily treatable. The type and
frequency of screening tests will depend on factors such as age,
gender, and family history.
3. Protect yourself from the sun: Limiting exposure to ultraviolet
(UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds can reduce the risk of
skin tumors.
4. Know your family history: If you have a family history of
tumors, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce your
risk.
5. Avoid exposure to harmful substances: Exposure to certain
chemicals and substances, such as asbestos and benzene, can
increase the risk of developing tumors. Avoiding exposure to these

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 substances, or using protective measures if exposure is
unavoidable, can reduce the risk.

Management:
Medical management:
The medical management of tumors typically involves several approaches, which
may be used alone or in combination, depending on the type, location, and stage
of the tumor. These approaches may include:
 Surgery: Surgery is often the first-line treatment for many types of tumors.
It involves removing the tumor and, in some cases, nearby tissues or lymph
nodes.
 Radiation therapy: This treatment involves using high-energy X-rays or
other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing.
 Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs
are usually given orally or by injection into a vein.
 Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system to
fight cancer by using substances that boost the immune system or by giving
the patient immune system cells that have been grown in a laboratory.
 Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is used to treat tumors that depend
on hormones for their growth, such as breast and prostate cancer. It
involves blocking the production or action of hormones in the body.
 Targeted therapy: This type of therapy targets specific proteins or genes
in cancer cells to prevent their growth and spread.
In addition to these treatments, supportive care may also be provided to manage
symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. This may include pain
management, nutrition support, and psychological support.

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Nursing Management:
The nursing management of tumors involves various aspects of care, including
assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of care. Here are some
important considerations in nursing management of tumors:
 Assessment: Nurses play a crucial role in assessing patients with
tumors. They should assess the patient's medical history, current
symptoms, and physical examination findings. This information helps
the nursing team to develop an individualized care plan that addresses
the patient's unique needs.
 Care planning: After assessing the patient, the nursing team should
create a care plan that focuses on symptom management, monitoring for
complications, and ensuring patient safety. The care plan should be
regularly reviewed and updated to reflect any changes in the patient's
condition.
 Implementation: Nurses should implement the care plan by
administering medications, monitoring vital signs, providing wound
care, managing pain, and educating the patient and their family on the
tumor and its management.
 Evaluation: Nurses should evaluate the effectiveness of the care plan by
monitoring the patient's response to treatment and assessing their overall
well-being. The nursing team should modify the care plan as needed to
ensure the best outcomes for the patient.
 Psychosocial support: Patients with tumors may experience anxiety,
depression, and other emotional distress. Nurses should provide
emotional support to patients and their families by listening to their
concerns, providing education and resources, and referring them to
appropriate support services.
 End-of-life care: For patients with advanced tumors, nurses should
provide end-of-life care that focuses on symptom management,
emotional support, and ensuring a peaceful death.
In summary, the nursing management of tumors involves a comprehensive
approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs of the
patient. A collaborative approach involving the nursing team, the patient, and
their family is crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes.
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Prepared By
Md. Omarsani
B.Sc. in Nursing (Session : 2020-21)
Khulna Nursing College, Khulna.

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