Question

What are the methods of cancer detection?
Describe the common approaches for treatment of cancer.

Answer 1

Methods for cancer detection

Cancer can be detected by a number of methods like:

• Biopsy
• Radiography
• Blood and bone marrow tests
• ELISA
• Molecular biology techniques

Biopsy

Biopsy involves cutting a piece of the tissue followed by slicing and staining it. The tissue thus treated is used for histopathological studies under the microscope. The cancerous cells, if present, are detected.


Radiography

Radiography makes use of radiations like X-rays in the case of computed tomography and magnetic radiations in case of MRI to detect internal cancers.


Blood and bone marrow analysis

Blood and bone marrow analysis is done to detect leukemias.

ELISA

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) detects the antibodies which are produced against the tumor proteins.

Molecular biology techniques

Molecular biology techniques can be used to detect the presence of genes that may predispose the individual to certain cancers. Example the breast cancer gene. Appropriate counseling can be given to the individual.

After detection or identification of these genes in any individual, they may be advised to avoid exposure to particular carcinogens to which they are susceptible. For example, tobacco smoke in case of lung cancer.


Treatment of cancer

Cancer can be treated by any of the following methods:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiotherapy
• Surgery
• Immunotherapy

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy makes use of chemotherapeutic drugs which attack the cancer cells and make them inactive. There are few side effects associated with chemotherapy like loss of hair, discolouration of nails, weakness, nausea.


Radiotherapy

High energy radiations like gamma rays are used to kill cancerous cells.
Tumor cells are irradiated lethally by gamma radiation taking proper care of the normal tissues surrounding the tumor mass or neoplasm.

Surgery

Surgical removal of the tumor without affecting the surrounding cells.


Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps in fighting the cancer cells. Patients are given substances like $\alpha$-Interferon which improves the immune response, helping in destruction of the cancerous cells.