Tuesday, January 15, 2008

How to Learn About the Gallbladder Cancer Diagnosis Process

Introduction

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that sits underneath a section of the liver. The gallbladder concentrates and stores bile, which is used in the digestive process. This organ can acquire 1 of 2 varieties of cancerous tumors: adenocarcinomas or papillary tumors. Both forms of gallbladder cancer are diagnosed by 1 of several available tests, and there are key symptoms to learn about and watch for in order to detect the early stages of this disease.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Identify the Signs of Gallbladder Cancer

Things You'll Need

  • Internet connection
  • Computer
  • Oncologist

Steps

1

Step One

Learn about the risk factors for gallbladder cancer. Those with a history of gallstones or those who are typhoid carriers run a much higher risk of contracting the disease.
2

Step Two

See the signs for possible gallbladder cancer. The most common symptoms include abdominal pain, regular nausea or vomiting, jaundice and gallbladder enlargement.
3

Step Three

Notice additional symptoms, such as loss of appetite, severe itching, abdominal swelling and black, tarry stools.

Test for Gallbladder Cancer

Steps

1

Step One

Schedule an exam with an oncologist if you suspect you may be ill.
2

Step Two

Reveal any medical history of cancer and report any symptoms you may experience.
3

Step Three

Get tested for gallbladder cancer. This often begins with a blood test and full physical.
4

Step Four

Submit to imaging tests such as ultrasounds and CT scans. These allow doctors to look inside the body and identify infected tissues and cells.
5

Step Five

Consider removing the gallbladder altogether if a problem is found. This is a common procedure, and it is entirely possible to live a healthy life without this organ.

How to Learn About the Kidney Cancer Diagnosis Process

Introduction

Kidney cancer occurs when small amounts of cells in these organs begin to change and grow abnormally. The kidneys are located in the torso--one to the immediate left of the backbone, and one to the right. They filter the blood and assist the body in disposing of excess water, salt and waste products, which leave the body in the form of urine. A kidney cancer diagnosis is complicated because the organs sit deep in the body, but there are several tests that can assist the process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Know When to Get Tested for Kidney Cancer

Things You'll Need

  • Internet connection
  • Computer

Steps

1

Step One

Tell your doctor immediately if you're experiencing pain in the kidney area, normally felt about the lower back.
2

Step Two

Observe symptoms like bloody urine, unexplained weight loss or extreme fatigue.
3

Step Three

Examine your torso regularly and report any new masses or lumps in the belly. Swelling in the feet or legs should also be noted.
4

Step Four

Take extra precautions with a persistent fever that is not the result of a flu or other illness.

Learn About the Kidney Cancer Diagnosis Process

Steps

1

Step One

Request a kidney cancer test if you have any relevant symptoms. Individuals with cancer in their families' medical histories are most susceptible.
2

Step Two

Get tested. The most common procedures are called imaging tests and may involve a CT scan, MRI, ultrasound or other similar process.
3

Step Three

Submit to other lab tests, such as a urinalysis, blood test or FNA biopsy.
4

Step Four

Know that if a mass is found, it isn't necessarily cancerous. A biopsy will be performed to indicate whether it is benign or malignant.
5

Step Five

Learn about the latest developments in the kidney cancer diagnosis process by visiting the American Cancer Society Web site (see Resources below).

How to Learn About the Pituitary Cancer Diagnosis Process

Introduction

The pituitary gland is found in the skull, just above the nasal passages. It's connected to the brain in the hypothalamus area, and the gland is considered the body's most important hormone regulator. The pituitary gland monitors the activity of all of the other glands in the body. Malignant pituitary tumors--tumors exhibiting cancerous cells--are rare, but benign varieties can be uncovered. The diagnosis process for this form of cancer is similar to other types, but because brain scans are not routinely administered, it's rare to diagnose this disorder in the early stages.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Recognize the Symptoms of Pituitary Cancer

Things You'll Need

  • Internet connection
  • Computer
  • Oncologist

Steps

1

Step One

Learn who is most at risk for pituitary cancer. The most prevalent factor is a history of cancerous glands in your family. If this exists, notify your doctor and request regular testing.
2

Step Two

Watch for the most common signs of the cancer. These include paralysis of eye movements, double or blurred vision, loss of peripheral vision, facial numbness and pain and dizziness or a loss of consciousness.
3

Step Three

Pay attention to additional signs that hormone secretion may be inhibited. Symptoms include stopped menstrual periods, impotence in men, decreased interest in sex and unexplained weight loss or gain.

Learn About the Tests for Pituitary Cancer

Steps

1

Step One

See your physician if you exhibit any symptoms or believe you have risk factors.
2

Step Two

Allow your doctor to perform biochemical testing. This will reveal if there is an excessive hormone production problem, which is a sign of pituitary cancer.
3

Step Three

Submit to blood testing, CT scans, MRI's and other body-imaging tests that can aid in the diagnosis.
4

Step Four

Learn about your options in the event of a positive diagnosis. There are many treatments, including surgery, depending on the type of pituitary cancer contracted.
5

Step Five

Learn more about the process of diagnosing pituitary cancer at the American Cancer Society Web site (see Resources below).
6

Step Six

Ask your doctor about any immediate lifestyle changes you can make prior to testing. For example, he may want you to refrain from eating for a set number of hours.

How to Learn About the Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Introduction

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs that target cancer cells in the body. The drugs specifically attack cells that divide rapidly. However, certain normal cells in the body also divide rapidly, and chemotherapy attacks these cells as well, leading to side effects. For example, hair cells normally divide rapidly, and thus hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet access

Steps

1

Step One

Know that most chemotherapy side effects are manageable. The majority of cancer patients receive some sort of chemotherapy, and most forms of chemotherapy are well documented and well understood. Ask your doctor for written information on the side effects that most commonly occur with the type of chemotherapy you will receive.
2

Step Two

Visit the Web site of the American Cancer Society (see Resources, below). This Web site contains a thorough discussion of almost all the major side effects of chemotherapy and explains why they occur.
3

Step Three

Be prepared for fatigue, which is the single most common side effect of chemotherapy. While undergoing chemotherapy, plan your life around your low and high energy periods. You can find helpful tips for coping with fatigue at the Breastcancer Web site (see Resources, below).
4

Step Four

Understand that most chemotherapy side effects occur because certain normal cells in the body grow rapidly in the same way that malignent cells do, and are thus also affected by chemotherapy drugs. These are cells in the bone marrow, cells in the mouth and digestive tract and hair cells. To some extent, side effects are a sign that the chemotherapy is working.
5

Step Five

Be aware that it is very important to have follow-up visits with either your family doctor or an oncologist after you finish chemotherapy. Follow-up visits are necessary to ensure that your cancer has not recurred.

How to Learn About the Uterine Cancer Diagnosis Process

Introduction

Uterine cancer is a sarcoma of the muscle supporting the womb. This form of cancer starts in tissues such as muscle, fat and bone, and the vast majority of cases begin in the cells lining the uterus. Diagnosis for uterine cancer can be challenging, as there are no standard tests given regularly that can detect the disease. It is therefore critical that you notice any potential changes in your body and report them to your doctor immediately.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Recognize the Signs of Uterine Cancer

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet connection
  • Oncologist

Steps

1

Step One

Know when you're at risk. Uterine cancer strikes African American patients more often than their Caucasian counterparts. Likewise, women who have already received radiation therapy for other forms of cancer are more likely to contract uterine cancer.
2

Step Two

Watch for irregular bleeding or discharge, in addition to pelvic pain or noticeable lumps. If you experience any of these symptoms, tell your doctor right away.

Learn How to Diagnosis Uterine Cancer

Steps

1

Step One

Visit your doctor and allow her to take a tissue sample from your uterus. This relatively painless process allows the doctor to biopsy the sample and determine if there are cancerous cells present.
2

Step Two

Submit to additional tests, such as a transvaginal ultrasound. There are several forms of uterine cancer, and various testing methods must be employed.
3

Step Three

Consult a specialist if a tumor is discovered. A second opinion and analysis by an expert in oncology should always be obtained before beginning treatment.
4

Step Four

Prepare for major short-term lifestyle changes during treatment for the cancer. This could include preparing for surgery or chemotherapy by improving your diet and quitting smoking.
5

Step Five

Stay up to date about uterine cancer diagnoses at the American Cancer Society Web site (see Resources below).

How to Organize a Relay for Life Team

Introduction

Relay For Life gives you the chance to join the community and fight against cancer. More than 3.5 million people are involved in walks at 4,800 locations across the country. You have to have someone from your team walking or running constantly during the overnight event. It's helpful to have several members on your team so everyone gets a little bit of a rest. It also adds to the camaraderie.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Go to the Relay for Life website to find out when the Relay for Life is in your area. Create an account to become a member of the website.
2

Step Two

Become a team captain. You'll be responsible for recruiting people to walk or run the night of the Relay.
3

Step Three

Take advantage of all the resources available to you. The website contains helpful tips, information, photos and links to help you organize a Relay for Life team.
4

Step Four

Talk up the event with friends. This is the best way to get people to join your team. If you have children tell them to spread the word to their friends, too.
5

Step Five

Send friends a card to invite them to participate with you. The American Cancer Society has five cards available that you can send as an invitation.
6

Step Six

Ask friends and family members to commit to the event early. This will keep you from having to scramble the week of the Relay for Life.
7

Step Seven

Submit your team members' names online. You can also call (800) ACS-2345 for more information on registering.

Tips & Warnings

  • Ask your church to put your request for team members in the church bulletin.
  • Chat online at the Relay for Life forums. This gives you a chance to talk to other team leaders about how they're recruiting team members. Share tips and information.

How to Prevent Endometrial Cancer

Introduction

Endometrial cancer, a disease that targets women, occurs when cells in the muscle or tissue of the uterus change or rapidly generate. There are various forms and severities of the cancer, and each offer multiple treatment options. Attempting to prevent endometrial cancer is a tricky process, as doctors still don't know how to prevent most cancers. There are steps, however, that you can take to drastically reduce your chance of contracting this disease.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Find out What Causes Endometrial Cancer

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet connection

Steps

1

Step One

Find out if your everyday behaviors are putting you at risk. Risk factors include smoking, other forms of cancer and poor diet.
2

Step Two

Have your hormone levels checked if you're suspicious of a problem. An over-abundance or under-abundance of specific hormones in a woman's body can indicate the possibility of endometrial cancer.
3

Step Three

Watch your menstrual cycles. If abnormalities start occurring, see your doctor.
4

Step Four

Tell your physician if you've ever used Tamoxifen, a drug used to treat breast cancer. This drug is also thought to be a potential cause of endometrial cancer.
5

Step Five

Pay close attention to your hormone levels if you are diabetic, as endometrial cancer is much more likely for those dealing with this disorder.
6

Step Six

Ask about your family's medical history. Those with cancer in their families are more likely to contract it themselves.

Take Steps to Prevent Endometrial Cancer

Steps

1

Step One

Cease the usage of birth control pills or estrogen therapy if you think you are at risk for endometrial cancer. Since these both change hormone levels in the body, they may be a cause for concern.
2

Step Two

Control your obesity, smoking habits and poor diet choices.
3

Step Three

Consider a preventative hysterectomy if you no longer wish to have children.
4

Step Four

Exercise frequently. Daily exercise can cut your risk in half.

How to Prevent Eye Cancer

Introduction

Eye cancer is a form of cancer that first afflicts any segment of the eye itself, aside from the eyelid. While relatively rare, eye cancer is still considered a serious diagnosis and treatments can vary. Like any cancer, there are specific risk factors associated with eye cancer. Likewise, there are a handful of ways in which individuals can protect themselves from contracting the disease.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Learn the Risk Factors Associated With Eye Cancer

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet connection

Steps

1

Step One

Find out if your family has ever had a history of eye cancer or other forms of cancer, as this contributes to your risk.
2

Step Two

Know the risk factors associated with eye cancer. Major factors include blue eyes, inherited melanoma, prolonged exposure to the sun and extensive time spent welding.
3

Step Three

Report any abnormal eye functions and pain to your doctor as soon as they develop.
4

Step Four

Don't wait for symptoms to become unavoidable before you find out what the cause may be. An early diagnosis can result in a more effective and less invasive treatment.

Take Action to Prevent Eye Cancer

Steps

1

Step One

Keep your immune system healthy through diet, exercise, proper nutrition and safe sexual habits.
2

Step Two

Try not to spend long periods of time exposed to the sun's rays.
3

Step Three

Wear protective eye-wear that blocks at least 99 percent of ultraviolet rays.
4

Step Four

Limit your exposure to radiation and welding.
5

Step Five

Prevent exposure of your eyes to harmful chemicals and carcinogens.
6

Step Six

Talk to your doctor about any other specific steps you can take if you are at risk.

How to Prevent Gallbladder Cancer

Introduction

People with gallbladder cancer have developed cancerous cells in the organ responsible for helping the liver digest foods and liquids. Because individuals can live without the gallbladder, the most common form of treatment is the complete removal of the infected organ. Although it is not known what specifically causes gallbladder cancer, there are important steps you can take to help prevent this diagnosis.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Find out Whether You're at Risk for Gallbladder Cancer

Things You'll Need

  • Internet connection
  • Computer

Steps

1

Step One

Learn about the main risk factors associated with gallbladder cancer. Top factors include gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, porcelain gallbladder syndrome, a previous typhoid infection and cysts on the bile duct.
2

Step Two

Check to see if your occupation leaves you at risk. Individuals who work around industrial chemicals may have a higher chance of contracting the disease.
3

Step Three

Take note of other risk factors, such as age (individuals 70 and over are at the highest risk), gender (men are twice as likely to contract the disease) and ethnicity (Native Americans have the greatest risk).

Activate Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Gallbladder Cancer

Steps

1

Step One

Educate yourself on your family's medical history. If you find there have been many cancer diagnoses, take steps to prevent a similar situation for yourself.
2

Step Two

Maintain a healthy and consistent weight through a nutritional diet and frequent exercise. Limit your exposure to chemicals and radiation.
3

Step Three

Avoid prolonged periods of exposure to sunlight, as UV rays have been shown to trigger various forms of cancer.

How to Prevent Pituitary Cancer

Introduction

The pituitary gland is found inside the skull, connected to the hypothalamus section of the brain. It's responsible for triggering the secretion of various hormones throughout different parts of the body. Most cancers of the pituitary involve the anterior portion. While the cause of this form of cancer isn't precisely known, steps to prevent the disease do exist.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Learn About Pituitary Cancer Risk Factors

Things You'll Need

  • Internet connection
  • Computer

Steps

1

Step One

Understand that a healthy life starts with a nutritional diet and regular exercise. Studies show that sedentary individuals have a higher rate of almost all forms of cancer.
2

Step Two

Research the 1 major risk factor associated with pituitary cancer. If anyone in your family has multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1, or MEN1, you are at a much higher risk of developing pituitary cancer.
3

Step Three

Observe your overall health, age and well-being. People with other forms of cancers run the risk of the infected cells spreading to other parts of the body. Also, older people also have a statistically higher chance of developing cancer.
4

Step Four

Report any major weight changes, moodiness and other unexplained health issues to your doctor immediately, as they may be indicators that something is wrong.

Make Changes in Your Life to Help Prevent Pituitary Cancer

Steps

1

Step One

Study your family's health history carefully and note any prevalent signs of cancer.
2

Step Two

Eat well and stay active.
3

Step Three

Avoid prolonged exposure to harmful substances such as chemicals and even the sun.
4

Step Four

Accept that pituitary cancer has no official known methods of direct prevention. It's imperative that you request hormone monitoring and other tests on a regular basis to watch for early signs.

How to Prevent Uterine Cancer

Introduction

Uterine cancer, sometimes referred to as uterine sarcoma, is a disease that affects the muscle and supporting tissues of a woman's uterus. To date, the exact cause of uterine cancer has yet to be determined, but doctors and scientists have discovered several key risk factors. Finding out if you're at risk and discovering the steps you can take to help prevent the disease are critical to maintaining a cancer-free existence.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Become Familiar With Uterine Cancer Risk Factors

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet connection

Steps

1

Step One

Find out the details of your family's medical history. Cancer has been shown to be somewhat hereditary, so this is a critical risk factor.
2

Step Two

Learn about the primary risk factors associated with uterine cancer. Top triggers include previous pelvic radiation therapy, race (African-American women are twice as likely to develop the disease), obesity, some forms of hormone therapy and infertility.
3

Step Three

Find out which preexisting health issues can also cause uterine cancer. Examples include diabetes, early menstruation (before age 12) and delayed menopause (after age 52).

Help Prevent Uterine Cancer With Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Steps

1

Step One

Realize that there are no surefire ways to prevent uterine cancer. You can only take steps to aid your overall health, but there are no guarantees.
2

Step Two

Work hard to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle full of nutritious foods and regular exercise. It's been proven that individuals who are active have a much lower risk of contracting any form of cancer.
3

Step Three

Consider halting the usage of birth control and other hormone therapies, as these have been associated with uterine cancer.

How to Recognize Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Symptoms

Introduction

A rare, abnormally acting cancer, Pseudomyxoma Peritonei affects a person's abdomen through a build up of a mucus, jelly-like fluid termed mucin. Typically the malignant growth begins in the appendix, bursts through the wall, spreading cancerous cells to the abdominal lining. The mucin build up causes most of the symptoms; however, many of these symptoms are present in other conditions, so diagnosis may be difficult.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Steps

1

Step One

Notice a slow increase in your waist size or unusual abdominal bloating. Pseudomyxoma Peritonei spreads internally along abdominal surfaces.
2

Step Two

Report any chronic abdominal pain or discomfort to your doctor. Many doctors confuse Pseudomyxoma Peritonei in women with ovarian cancer, as they share the same major symptom of a swollen and painful abdomen.
3

Step Three

Note any changes in appetite, such as a loss of appetite or changes in bowel habits.
4

Step Four

Keep track if you're having trouble getting pregnant. Untreated Pseudomyxoma Peritonei causes women to become incapable of becoming pregnant.

Tips & Warnings

  • Some people don't have any of the above symptoms, making diagnosis extremely difficult. And many of the symptoms affecting the abdomen, even if present, are associated with other medical conditions.
  • It can take years to experience symptoms of Pseudomyxoma Peritonei.
  • Mucinous tumor cells cover everything in the peritoneum, including the outer bowel, liver, womb, gallbladder and ovaries.

How to Recognize the Symptoms of Cancer

Introduction

Cancer is a cluster of diseases caused mostly by improper splitting of cells. These uncharacteristic cells damage the normal body tissue and usually spread throughout the patient’s body. In other words, cancer is caused by damage to the DNA. Normally, DNA controls the growth of cells but in cancer, the DNA loses control over the cells. The cells keep multiplying in a chaotic way. Rapid multiplication of such cells results in tumors. In some cases, it secretes substances that immensely harmful to other organs of the body.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Understand that cancer is of various types. If not treated in the initial stage, it can be fatal.
2

Step Two

Find out the weight of the patient at specific intervals. Patients suffering from cancer are likely to lose weight in a short time without any obvious reason.
3

Step Three

Find out if the patient has constant fever. Cancer patients are likely to have high temperature as their immune system is weakened by the virus.
4

Step Four

Inquire if the patient complains of fatigue or loss of energy.
5

Step Five

Note if the patient is suffering from constant pain in particular region of the body. Such complaints need to be immediately handled by a specialist doctor with related tests.
6

Step Six

Inquire if the patient is experiencing unusual bleeding or discharge. Blood discharge can be found in phlegm, stools or urine. There can be vaginal bleeding.
7

Step Seven

Verify if the patient has any lumps on the body. Cancerous lumps can be found in breasts, glands and soft tissues of the body.
8

Step Eight

Ask if the patient is suffering from prolonged hoarseness. If the hoarseness of the throat lasts for more than 3 weeks, it should be immediately reported to the doctor.
9

Step Nine

Check the patient for non-healing sores. If a sore fails to heal, it should be brought to a doctor’s notice. For non-healing sores in the mouth and other organs, a doctor should be consulted without delay.

How to See a Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Specialist

Introduction

Pseudomyxoma Peritonei is a tumor in the lining of the abdominal cavity that secretes large amounts of mucus. It consequently causes increasing abdominal girth, the so called "jelly-belly." Because it is a relatively rare condition, its treatment is best handled by specialists familiar with its treatments and the newer treatment regimens.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Check the review article on the website of the Sugarbaker oncology associates. It has a flow chart that graphically depicts the treatment options and how they should be pursued. It also links to a detailed discussion of cytoreductive surgery, the primary surgical means of removing the tumors.
2

Step Two

Discuss treatment with your primary care physician (PCP). He or she will have an idea of what initial options are available for treatment. These will be dependant upon your insurance.
3

Step Three

Begin your search for a specialist by following the recommendation of your PCP. In all likelihood, this will be an appointment with a local cancer specialist (oncologist).
4

Step Four

Contact one of the national centers for cancer therapy like M.D. Anderson hospital at the University of Texas in Houston. This hospital has reported a surgical series of 45 patients with pseudomyxoma and obviously has experience. You may not need to go to a national center for treatment, but they may have resources for you with regard to choice and local physicians familiar with the disease.
5

Step Five

Discuss treatment alternatives with your oncologist and your PCP. Ask the oncologist how many cases of pseudomyxoma he or she has seen. Also, discuss how sure everyone is of your diagnosis. There are a number of different tumors that can produce the same symptoms.
6

Step Six

Seek a second opinion regardless of what the oncologist suggests. This is not an affront to the oncologist. For a rarer tumor like a pseudomyxoma, it is simply an appropriate precaution. If possible, get an opinion from a local medical school. All medical schools are referral centers and see greater numbers of uncommon problems.
7

Step Seven

Go through the same process if surgery is recommended--seeing the surgeon to whom you are referred but seeking a second opinion. Keep your PCP in the loop at all times. Your PCP must be the anchor of your treatment since only he or she knows you and understands all of your medical problems. In addition, as you move through these various stages of treatment, your PCP will be an invaluable source of support.
8

Step Eight

Go through whatever steps are needed to go to a national center like M.D. Anderson if you are uncomfortable after having pursued all your local options. While national centers are not always a best solution since followup is difficult and a patient is often rushed through treatment in an impersonal fashion, going to one may be necessary if you have discomfort with your local options.

Tips & Warnings

  • As you go through your search for a specialist, make sure you collect copies of all pertinent reports, histories and physicals, pathology reports, lab reports, and consultations. Have an extra copy of the reports available in case a specialist needs them, but keep your own copies intact at all times. This greatly hastens your treatment.
  • Do NOT discount trust as being an important part of your treatment. Trusting your surgeon and oncologist is a crucial part of successfully combating any disease but particularly one like pseudomyxoma which can have confusing options and one that is being explored with new treatments.

How to Support Eye Cancer Patients

Introduction

Eye cancer can occur in 1 of the 3 main sections of the eye. These sections include the orbit, the globe and the adnexal structures. Individuals battling cancer of the eye have a huge list of factors to deal with on a daily basis, from deciding on treatments to facing one's mortality. If your friend or family member has been diagnosed with eye cancer, take an active role in learning how to support them through this difficult process. It will help enrich both of your lives, and may just give the necessary boost to make a full recovery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Learn How to Support Eye Cancer Patients Before Treatment

Things You'll Need

  • Internet connection
  • Computer

Steps

1

Step One

Know that there are close to 2,500 eye cancer patients every year, with the wide majority of them aged 50 or over.
2

Step Two

Offer to accompany your loved one to one or more doctor visits. Remembering all the right questions to ask and retaining the valuable information can be overwhelming, and having a trusted companion can help tremendously.
3

Step Three

Help them decide the right treatment choice by researching methods and allowing them to discuss all their options at length.
4

Step Four

Make an unbiased list of pros and cons for treatment options.
5

Step Five

Encourage the individual to ask their doctor every conceivable question or concern. It's important they gather all the information they can before making a treatment selection.

Learn How to Support Eye Cancer Patients During and After Treatment

Steps

1

Step One

Offer to take over some of your loved one's responsibilities during the treatment process, such as childcare or house cleaning.
2

Step Two

Volunteer your time and effort to help with every day tasks like babysitting, transportation and house cleaning.
3

Step Three

Make an extra effort to do fun things that can take your loved one's mind off their cancer.
4

Step Four

Plan surprise dinners, gifts and outings can help keep the patient in a positive frame of mind.
5

Step Five

Research what your loved one can expect once treatment is complete. In some cases, vision will be damaged or all together destroyed. If this is the case, help them start adjusting to a sightless lifestyle before the blindness takes effect.

How to Support Uterine Cancer Patients

Introduction

Receiving a diagnosis of uterine cancer triggers a wide range of emotional responses. Individuals facing this disease must prepare for difficult decisions, a fair amount of physical pain and significant stress. Learning to support a loved one through this ordeal is one of the best ways you can contribute to her recovery and overall health. It's not easy, but with support and understanding, patients can heal and live a full, cancer-free life.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Support Uterine Cancer Patients Before Treatment

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet connection
  • Oncologist

Steps

1

Step One

Give extra attention and support to individuals who have recently received a uterine cancer diagnosis. The shock and emotional nature of this news requires a loving, open environment to fully process.
2

Step Two

Talk through the various treatment options with your loved one. Resist the urge to offer your advice, but allow her to discuss the methods at length, as it will help her reach a conclusion she is completely sure about.
3

Step Three

Find out additional questions she should ask her doctor, such as the stage of the cancer, the benefits and risk of different treatment options and how to protect the patient's fertility.

Support Uterine Cancer Patients During and After Treatment

Steps

1

Step One

Offer to take over some of your patient's responsibilities during the treatment process, such as childcare or house cleaning.
2

Step Two

Take her to scheduled appointments and treatments. It will help tremendously to have a supportive friend along for the journey.
3

Step Three

Encourage your friend or family member to take care of her physical and emotional states during and after treatment. A balanced diet and regular exercise will help her mind, body and spirit.
4

Step Four

Attend a uterine cancer support group with the patient.

How to Treat Endometrial Cancer

Introduction

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that affects thousands of women each year. In endometrial cancer, the cancer originates in the endometrium of the body and then spreads to other areas. Treatment for endometrial cancer is typically successful, especially if diagnosed during the earlier stages.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Steps

1

Step One

Ask for a referral to a gynecologic oncologist. This type of oncologist specializes in reproductive types of cancer. Depending on your area, you may need to travel in order to find a doctor with this specialty.
2

Step Two

Find out the stage of your cancer. The initial stages of the cancer are limited to your uterus and cervix. Later stages involve the spreading of the cancer to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body.
3

Step Three

Undergo a hysterectomy. This is the most common way that endometrial cancer is treated. Depending on how much the cancer has spread, your fallopian tubes and ovaries may also need to be surgically removed.
4

Step Four

Get radiation or chemotherapy to kill cancer cells. You receive these therapies in order to eliminate additional cancer cells following surgery.
5

Step Five

Take hormones. Research has shown that certain hormones taken in high doses can stop endometrial cancer from spreading.
6

Step Six

Stay healthy during the treatment process. Maintain a healthy diet and get enough sleep in order to give your body the strength to fight the cancer.

Tips & Warnings

  • You may consider joining a support group while going through treatment for endometrial cancer. A support group can put you in touch with women who are going through the same thing.
  • Endometrial cancer is also often referred to as uterine cancer.

How to Treat Histiocytoma

Introduction

A histiocytoma originates from histiocytes. The most common type of histiocytoma is a malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH), which account for up to 24 percent of all soft tissue sarcomas. MFHs are classified into five subtypes by histology: angiomatoid, giant cell, inflammatory, myxoid and storiform. The prognosis of a histiocytoma is determined primarily by the tumor's grade, size and degree of metastasis. The following steps will show how to treat a histiocytoma.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Steps

1

Step One

Treat most histiocytomas surgically. The aggressive nature of these tumors usually requires prompt action to completely remove it. The preferred technique is a radical or wide resection and followed by close monitoring with Magnetic Resonance Imaging to check for recurrence.
2

Step Two

Consult with the orthopedic surgeon before performing a biopsy on a suspected histiocytoma. The biopsy tract may need to be removed along with the mass in some cases, and an orthopedic consultation can minimize the extent of the surgery.
3

Step Three

Verify that a dermatofibroma is benign. This type of histiocytoma on the skin rarely requires treatment after it has been definitively identified. The patient should report any changes to a physician as with any skin lesion.
4

Step Four

Use complete excision, including the subcutaneous fat on dermatofibromas that have not been diagnosed, are cosmetically unacceptable or are particularly symptomatic. A biopsy shaped like an inverted pyramid can be cosmetically desirable and still provide enough tissue for a histological analysis.
5

Step Five

Treat dermatofibromas with shaving or cryosurgery for cosmetic reasons. However, the chance of recurrence is more likely with these procedures.