- Based on the case study described, proceed to classify the tumor based on the TNM Stage classification. Why is this classification important?
The TNM staging system is determined by evaluating the size of the tumor, its involvement with nearby lymph nodes, and the presence of metastasis. The following describes these factors:
- T-Tumor. The tumor classification provides insight into the influence of tumors on neighboring cells. According to the case of Mr. J.C., the cancer has reached a significant size and has extended to the surrounding cells. In this case, T0 causes a dent, gradually enlarging and invading large anatomical structures. In the study conducted by Park et al. (2021), it was found that the T0 invasion extended to the subserosa and muscularis propria. Due to the tumor’s size exceeding 2 cm in diameter, it metastasized to the lymph nodes.
- N-Nodes. The malignant area is ultimately linked to the tumors (Pereira et al., 2020). The lymph nodes play a crucial role in the body’s filtration process, as they absorb bodily fluids from capillaries, preventing them from reaching the lymph nodes. This case study observed that Mr. J.C. presented with an N1 due to the involvement of three regional nodes.
- M-Metastasis. It was clear that Mr. J.C. had a primary tumor that had spread extensively throughout the tumor in this case. After applying beyond the lymph nodes, Mr. J.C.’s cancer extended to other regions. Mr. J.C. exhibited diverse symptoms, clearly indicating their widespread nature. According to Mr. J.C., the metastatic stage designation is M0. Understanding the potential effects of an illness on an organism is essential for its classification. The method is of utmost importance as it is straightforward and facilitates the classification of cancer patients. Based on the information provided, it is likely that the patient’s cancer has progressed to stage IV. Proper staging is crucial to establish the most effective treatment strategy and accurately assess the patient’s long-term outlook. Furthermore, the survival rate of patients with advanced cancer is significantly lower due to metastasis. As a result, chemotherapy is often the preferred treatment method over surgery (Pereira et al., 2020).
- Discussed characteristics of malignant tumors regarding their cells, growth, and ability to spread.
Metastasis and uncontrolled cell division are defining features of malignant tumors. The aberrant cell division altered cellular attributes, such as morphology and nuclear dimensions. The dissemination of malignant cells might affect other bodily organs. Suppressor genes execute the body’s mechanisms for controlling cell division, therefore causing the genes to become impaired (Yang et al., 2021).
- Describe the carcinogenesis phase when a tumor metastasizes.
The process of carcinogenesis consists of four distinct stages: initiation, promotion, malignant conversion, and tumor progression (Park et al., 2021). The method of malignant conversion leads to the transformation of tumors into malignant forms. As a consequence, it leads to metastasis. It is worth noting that malignant tumors are frequently associated with metastasis.