Cancer treatments

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In cellular model systems, cells are exposed to carcinogenic influences (chemicals, radiation). In these systems, the first signs of a cell developing into a tumor cell are:

Immortality. The usual number of cell divisions for a mammalian cell is 50-60 (cell senescence), then it ceases to divide. Tumor cells keep dividing forever.
Altered morphology.
Building of cellular clusters (Foci).
Loss of contact inhibition.
Low or no need for growth factors.

Items 2-4 (above) can sometimes be traced to mutations in genes that result in a disruption of cell adhesion. Some cell adhesion proteins are oncogenes.

The field of medicine concerned with the treatment of cancer is oncology. Cancer has become an important problem with the rise in life expectancy, as the abovementioned mutations become more likely the longer a person lives. Though great progress in treatment has been made, most cancers in advanced stages remain incurable and ultimately fatal.

Cancers are capable of spreading through the body by two mechanisms: local invasion and distant metastasis. Invasion refers to the direct migration and penetration by cancer cells into neighboring tissues. Metastasis refers to the ability of cancer cells to penetrate into lymphatic and blood vessels, circulate through the bloodstream, and then invade normal tissues elsewhere in the body. Cancer is most deadly when it metastasizes.

NCI Center For Cancer Research
U.S. government resource which provides access to information for researchers and about collaborations. Aimed at the professional level.
ChemoCare
Scott Hamilton�s chemotherapy site offers general treatment information for cancer patients. Sponsored by Ortho Biotech.
Cancer-help.org
Links to articles about tumors, treatments and care.
Cancer Advice UK
Advice and information about diagnosis and treatment issues. Includes leaflets, book suggestions, links and support groups.
Radiofrequency Ablation: Cancer
Brief summary of a technique which may be used for treatment. Includes a FAQ, message board and illustrations.

Cancer treatments