Types of Cancer
| Cancer type | Symptoms in patients | Diagnosis | Treatment | Cure (if any) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) | No specific procedure in screening for it according to NCI. Symptoms include: fever, feeling tired, and easy bruising or bleeding. Fever or drenching night sweats. Easy bruising or bleeding. Petechiae (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin, caused by bleeding). Shortness of breath. Weight loss or loss of appetite. Pain in the bones or stomach. Pain or feeling of fullness below the ribs. Painless lumps in the neck, underarm, stomach, or groin. Having many infections. |
Physical exam and health history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as infection or anything else that seems unusual. Complete blood count (CBC) with differential: A procedure in which a sample of blood is drawn and checked for the following: The number of red blood cells and platelets. The number and type of white blood cells. The amount of hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells. The portion of the blood sample made up of red blood cells. Blood chemistry studies and bone marrow biopsy are also applied. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Targeted therapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) | Fever. Shortness of breath. Easy bruising or bleeding. Petechiae (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin caused by bleeding). Weakness or feeling tired. Weight loss or loss of appetite. |
Physical exam and health history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as infection or anything else that seems unusual. Complete blood count (CBC) with differential: A procedure in which a sample of blood is drawn and checked for the following: The number of red blood cells and platelets. The number and type of white blood cells. The amount of hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells. The portion of the blood sample made up of red blood cells. Blood chemistry studies and bone marrow biopsy are also applied. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Targeted therapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Adrenocortical Carcinoma | These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by adrenocortical carcinoma: A lump in the abdomen. Pain the abdomen or back. A feeling of fullness in the abdomen. |
Physical exam and health history check, 24 hour urine test, Low-dose and high dose dexamethasone suppression test, blood chemistry study, CT scna, MRI, adrenal angiography, adrenal venography, PET scan, MIBG scan and biopsy. | Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Biologic therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Anal cancer | Signs of anal cancer include bleeding from the anus or rectum or a lump near the anus. Bleeding from the anus or rectum. A lump near the anus. Pain or pressure in the area around the anus. Itching or discharge from the anus. A change in bowel habits. |
Physical exam, Digital Rectal examination, Anoscopy, Proctoscopy, Endo-anal or endo-rectal ultrasound and biopsy |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Radiosensitizers Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| AIDS-related cancer: Kaposi Sarcoma (Soft Tissue sarcoma, AIDS-Related Lymphoma (Lymphoma) and Primary CNS Lymphoma (Lymphoma) |
Weight loss or fever for no known reason. Drenching night sweats. Painless, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, chest, underarm, or groin. A feeling of fullness below the ribs. |
Physical exam, HIV test, CT scan, PET scan, Blood chemistry studies, Hepatitis B and C scan, LDH, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Radiation therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor (childhood) | Morning headache or headache that goes away after vomiting. Nausea and vomiting. Unusual sleepiness or change in activity level. Loss of balance, lack of coordination, or trouble walking. Increase in head size (in infants). |
Physical exam, lumbar puncture for collecting cerebrosinal fluid, SMARCB1 and SMARCA4 gene testing, MRI and neurological exam. |
Four types of treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant |
Childhood atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor is diagnosed and may be removed in surgery when detected early enough. |
| Bile duct cancer | Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes). Dark urine. Clay colored stool. Pain in the abdomen. Fever. Itchy skin. Nausea and vomiting. Weight loss for an unknown reason. |
Physical exam, liver function test, Laboratory tests, Ultrasound exam, CT scan, MRI, MRCP, Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA 19-9 tumor marker test. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy. Also, Liver tranplant can be used to treat it. |
No specific cure available. |
| Bladder cancer | Blood in the urine (slightly rusty to bright red in color). Frequent urination. Pain during urination. Lower back pain. |
Physical exam, Urinalysis, urine cytology, internal examination and Cystoscopy |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Bone and joint cancer | Swelling over a bone or bony part of the body. Pain in a bone or joint. A bone that breaks for no known reason. |
Physical Exam CT scan X-ray MRI and Biopsy |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Samarium Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Bronchial tumors | Dry cough. Wheezing. Trouble breathing. Spitting up blood from the airways or lung. Frequent infections in the lung, such as pneumonia. Feeling very tired. Loss of appetite or weight loss for no known reason. |
Physical exam Chest X-Ray CT scan Bronchoscopy |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Brain cancer (childhood brain stem Glioma) | Trouble with eye movement (the eye is turned inward). Vision problems. Morning headache or headache that goes away after vomiting. Nausea and vomiting. Unusual sleepiness. Loss of ability to move one side of the face or body. Loss of balance and trouble walking. More or less energy than usual. Changes in behavior. Trouble learning in school. |
Physical exam and health history, MRI with galdinium, neurological exam, biopsy |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy, Cerebrospinal fluid diversion Chemotherapy Observation |
No specific cure available. |
| Breast cancer | A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area. A change in the size or shape of the breast. A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast. A nipple turned inward into the breast. Fluid, other than breast milk, from the nipple, especially if it's bloody. Scaly, red, or swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola (the dark area of skin around the nipple). Dimples in the breast that look like the skin of an orange, called peau d’orange. |
Clinical breast exam, Mammogram: An x-ray of the breast, Ulttrasound exam, MRI, Blood chemistry studies, Biopsy. |
Breast cancer is usually treated with surgery and then probably with chemotherapy or radiation, or both. Hormone positive cancer is cured with long term hormone blocking therapy. Breast cancer treatments are offered with increasing aggressiveness according to the prognosis & risk of recurrence |
No specific cure available. |
| Carcinoma of unknown Primary | Lump or thickening in any part of the body. Pain that is in one part of the body and does not go away. A cough that does not go away or hoarseness in the voice. Change in bowel or bladder habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or frequent urination. Unusual bleeding or discharge. Fever for no known reason that does not go away. Night sweats. Weight loss for no known reason or loss of appetite. |
Physical exam, Fecal occult blood test, Urinalysis, blood chemistry studies, Complete blood count, cytogenic analysis, Immunohistochemistry, Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) test, Light and electron microscopy. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Cardiac tumors | Change in the heart's normal rhythm. Trouble breathing, especially when the child is lying down. Pain or tightness in the middle of the chest that feels better when the child is sitting up. Coughing. Fainting. Feeling dizzy, tired, or weak. Fast heart rate. Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen. Feeling anxious. Signs of a stroke. |
Physical exam and health history, CT scan, MRI, echocardiogram, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Cardiac catheterization |
Five types of treatment are used: Watchful waiting Radiation therapy chemotherapy Surgery Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Central Nervous system tumors (Brain and spinal cord tumors) |
Nausea and vomiting. Seizures. Headaches. Arm or leg weakness. Confusion. Double vision. Hearing loss. |
Physical exam, MRI, Eye exam with dilated pupil, Lumbar puncture, Stereotactic biopsy, Neurological exam. |
Four standard treatments are used: Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Steroid therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Cervical cancer | Vaginal bleeding (including bleeding after sexual intercourse). Unusual vaginal discharge. Pelvic pain. Pain during sexual intercourse. |
Physical exam and health history, Pelvic exam, PAP test, Human papillomavirus (HPV) test, Endocervical curettage, Colposcopy, Biopsy. |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Targeted therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Colon cancer | A change in bowel habits. Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool. Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way. Stools that are narrower than usual. Frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps. Weight loss for no known reason. Feeling very tired. Vomiting. |
Physical exam and health history, Digital rectal exam, Fecal occult blood test (FOBT), Barium enema, Sigmoidoscopy, Colonoscopy, biopsy |
Seven types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiofrequency ablation Cryosurgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Targeted therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Cholangiocarcinoma - (part of Bile Duct Cancer) | Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes). Dark urine. Clay colored stool. Pain in the abdomen. Fever. Itchy skin. Nausea and vomiting. Weight loss for an unknown reason. |
Physical exam, liver function test, Laboratory tests, Ultrasound exam, CT scan, MRI, MRCP, Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA 19-9 tumor marker test. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy. Also, Liver tranplant can be used to treat it. |
No specific cure available. |
| Chordoma (Childhood Bone Cancer) | Headache. Double vision. Blocked or stuffy nose. Trouble speaking. Trouble swallowing. Neck or back pain. Pain down the back of the legs. Numbness, tingling, or weakness of the arms and legs. A change in bowel or bladder habits. |
Physical exam and health history, CT scan, MRI, biopsy | Two types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) | Painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, stomach, or groin. Feeling very tired. Pain or fullness below the ribs. Fever and infection. Easy bruising or bleeding. Petechiae (flat, pinpoint, dark-red spots under the skin caused by bleeding). Weight loss for no known reason. |
Physical exam and health history, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential, Flow cytometry, Blood chemistry studies, Lactate dehydrogenase testing, Beta-2-microglobulin testing, HIV testing, Hepatitis B and C testing, FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization), Gene mutation testing, Serum immunoglobulin testing |
Five types of treatment are used: Watchful waiting Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Targeted therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) | Feeling very tired. Weight loss for no known reason. Drenching night sweats. Fever. Pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs on the left side. |
Physical exam and health history, Complete blood count (CBC), Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, Blood chemistry studies. |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Targeted therapy Chemotherapy Immunotherapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) Surgery |
No specific cure available. |
| Chronic Myeloproliferative Neoplasms | A feeling of pressure or fullness below the ribs on the left side. Headaches. Double vision or seeing dark or blind spots that come and go. Itching all over the body, especially after being in warm or hot water. Reddened face that looks like a blush or sunburn. Weakness. Dizziness. Weight loss for no known reason. |
Physical exam, Complete blood count (CBC), Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, Blood chemistry studies, Peripherial blood smear, Cytogenic analysis, genetic mutation analysis |
Eleven types of standard treatment are used: Watchful waiting Targeted therapy, Chemotherapy Phlebotomy , Platelet apheresis, Transfusion therapy, Radiation therapy, drug therapy, immuno therapy, High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant, Suegery. |
No specific cure available. |
| Craniopharyngioma, Childhood (Brain Cancer) | Headaches, including morning headache or headache that goes away after vomiting. Vision changes. Nausea and vomiting. Loss of balance or trouble walking. Increase in thirst or urination. Unusual sleepiness or change in energy level. Changes in personality or behavior. Short stature or slow growth. Hearing loss. Weight gain. |
Physical exam and health history, CT scan, MRI, Blood chemistry studies, Blood hormonr studies, Visual field exam, neurological exam. |
Five types of treatment are used: Surgery (resection) Surgery and radiation therapy Surgery with cyst drainage Chemotherapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma - (Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome) |
Red rashes appearing on the skin peeling, and painful. There may also be patches, plaques, or tumors on the skin |
Physical exam and health history, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential, Flow cytometry, Blood chemistry studies, Sézary blood cell count, HIV test, Skin biopsy, T-cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangement test |
Seven types of standard treatment are used: Photodynamic therapy Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Other drug therapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy High-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy with stem cell transplant |
No specific cure available. |
| Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) (part of breast cancer) |
A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area. A change in the size or shape of the breast. A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast. A nipple turned inward into the breast. Fluid, other than breast milk, from the nipple, especially if it's bloody. Scaly, red, or swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola (the dark area of skin around the nipple). Dimples in the breast that look like the skin of an orange, called peau d’orange. |
Clinical breast exam, Mammogram: An x-ray of the breast, Ulttrasound exam, MRI, Blood chemistry studies, Biopsy. |
Breast cancer is usually treated with surgery and then probably with chemotherapy or radiation, or both. Hormone positive cancer is cured with long term hormone blocking therapy. Breast cancer treatments are offered with increasing aggressiveness according to the prognosis & risk of recurrence |
No specific cure available. |
| Embryonal cancer (Childhood Medulloblastoma and Other Central Nervous System Embryonal Tumors) | Loss of balance, trouble walking, lack of coordination, or slow speech. Headache, especially in the morning, or headache that goes away after vomiting. General weakness or weakness on one side of the face. Unusual sleepiness or change in energy level. Seizures. Double vision or other eye problems. Nausea and vomiting. |
Physical exam, MRI of the brain and sinal cord, Lumbar puncture, CT scan, Neurological exam. |
Five types of treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Endometrial cancer | Vaginal bleeding or discharge not related to menstruation (periods). Difficult or painful urination. Vagina bleeding after menopauuse. Pain during sexual intercourse Pain in the pelvic area |
Endometrial biopsy, dilatation and curettage, Hysteroscopy, Physical exam and health history, Transvaginal ultrasound exam |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Esophageal cancer | Painful or difficult swallowing. Weight loss. Pain behind the breastbone. Hoarseness and cough. Indigestion and heartburn. A lump under the skin. |
Physical exam and health history, Chest X-ray, Esophagoscopy, Biopsy, Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), MRI. |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Chemoradiation therapy Laser therapy Electrocoagulation |
No specific cure available. |
| Ependymoma (Childhood) | Frequent headaches. Seizures. Nausea and vomiting. Pain in the neck or back. Loss of balance or trouble walking. Weakness in the legs. Blurry vision. A change in bowel function. Trouble urinating. Confusion or irritability. |
Physical exam and health histor, Neurological exam, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) with gadolinium, Lumbar puncture |
Three types of treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
Esthesioneuroblastoma (Head and Neck Cancer) |
A mass in the nose. Trouble breathing through the nose. Change in or loss of the sense of smell. Foul-smelling discharge from the nose. Nosebleeds. Headache. Bulging of the eye. Trouble seeing. Eye pain. |
CT scan, MRI, Biopsy, Gene mutation test, Physical examination, Immunohistochemistry, Electron microscopy |
Three types of treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Extracranial Germ Cell Tumor, Childhood | A lump in the neck, abdomen, or lower back. A painless lump in the testicle. Pain in the abdomen. Fever. Constipation. In females, no menstrual periods or unusual vaginal bleeding. |
Physical exam, Lumbar puncture, CT scan, Neurological exam, Serum tumor marker test, Chest Xray, Ultrasound. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Observation Chemotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumor | Chest pain. Breathing problems. Cough. Fever. Headache. Change in bowel habits. Feeling very tired. Trouble walking. Trouble in seeing or moving the eyes. |
Physical exam, Lumbar puncture, CT scan, Neurological exam, Serum tumor marker test, Chest Xray, Ultrasound. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Surgery |
No specific cure available. |
| Eye Cancer | Blurred vision or other change in vision. Floaters (spots that drift in your field of vision) or flashes of light. A dark spot on the iris. A change in the size or shape of the pupil. A change in the position of the eyeball in the eye socket. |
Physical exam and health, Eye exam wwith dilated pupil, High-resolution ultrasound, Indocyanine green angiography, biomicroscopy, Ultrasound exam of the eye, Transillumination of the globe and iris, Ocular coherence tomography, Fluorescein angiography |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Watchful Waiting Radiation therapy Photocoagulation Thermotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Fallopian Tube Cancer | Pain, swelling, or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen or pelvis. Vaginal bleeding that is heavy or irregular, especially after menopause. Vaginal discharge that is clear, white, or colored with blood. A lump in the pelvic area. Gastrointestinal problems, such as gas, bloating, or constipation. |
Physical exam and health, Pelvic exam, CA 125 assay, Ultrasound exam, CT scan, PET scan, Chest X-ray, MRI, Biopsy. |
Three kinds of standard treatment are used. Surgery Chemotherapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Gallbladder Cancer | Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). Pain above the stomach. Fever. Nausea and vomiting. Bloating. Lumps in the abdomen. |
Physical exam and health, Pelvic exam,Liver function tests, PTC, ERCP, MRI, Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), Laparoscopy, Biopsy, Ultrasound exam, CT scan, PET scan, |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Radiation sensitizers |
No specific cure available. |
| Gastric (Stomach) Cancer | Blood in the stool. Vomiting. Weight loss for no known reason. Stomach pain. Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin). Ascites (build-up of fluid in the abdomen). Trouble swallowing. |
Physical exam, Barium swallow, Upper endoscopy, CT scan, Biospsy, Complete blood count, Blood chemistry studies. |
Seven types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Endoscopic mucosal resection Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Chemoradiation Targeted therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumor | Redness or a feeling of warmth in the face and neck. Abdominal pain. Feeling bloated. Diarrhea. Wheezing or other trouble breathing. Fast heartbeat. |
Physical exam, Blood chemistry studies, Tumor marker test, Twenty-four-hour urine test, MIBG scan, MRI, CT scan, PET scan, endoscopic ultrasound, Upper endoscopy, Colonoscopy, capsule endoscopy, biopsy. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) (Soft Tissue Sarcoma) |
Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool or vomit. Pain in the abdomen, which may be severe. Feeling very tired. Trouble or pain when swallowing. Feeling full after only a little food is eaten. |
Physical exam, CT scan, MRI, biopsy, endoscopic ultrasound. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Targeted therapy Watchful waiting Supportive care |
No specific cure available. |
| Germ Cell Tumors (ovarian germ cell) | Swollen abdomen without weight gain in other parts of the body. Bleeding from the vagina after menopause (when you are no longer having menstrual periods). |
Physical exam and health, Pelvic exam, Laparotomy, CT scan, serum marker test. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Observation Chemotherapy Radiation therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Hodgkin Lymphoma | Painless, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, or groin. Fever for no known reason. Drenching night sweats. Weight loss for no known reason in the past 6 months. Itchy skin, especially after bathing or drinking alcohol. Feeling very tired. |
Physical exam, Blood chemistry studies, LDH test, Hepatitis B and hepatitis C test, HIV test, sedimentation rate, PET-CT scan, Complete blood scan. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Targeted therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Hypopharyngeal Cancer | A sore throat that does not go away. Ear pain. A lump in the neck. Painful or difficult swallowing. A change in voice. |
Physical exam and health, Physical exam of the throat, neurological exam, CT scan, PET scan (positron emission tomography scan), Bone scan, MRI, Barium esophagogram, Biopsy, Esophagoscopy, Bronchoscopy, Endoscopy. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Intraocular Melanoma | Blurred vision or other change in vision. Floaters (spots that drift in your field of vision) or flashes of light. A dark spot on the iris. A change in the size or shape of the pupil. A change in the position of the eyeball in the eye socket. |
Physical exam and health, Transillumination of the globe and iris, ultrasound exam of the eye, Eye exam with dilated pupil, High-resolution ultrasound biomicroscopy, Fluorescein angiography, Indocyanine green angiography, Ocular coherence tomography. |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Watchful Waiting Radiation therapy Photocoagulation Thermotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Islet Cell Tumors, Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors |
Diarrhea. Indigestion. A lump in the abdomen. Pain in the abdomen or back. Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, Chromogranin A test, Abdominal CT scan, MRI, endoscopic ultrasound, Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy, Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), angiogram, laporotomy, Interopertaive ultraosund, biopsy, bone scan |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery, Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, Hepatic arterial occlusion or chemoembolization, targeted therapy, supportive care. |
No specific cure available. |
| Kaposi Sarcoma (Soft Tissue Sarcoma) | Redness of the skin | Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, Chest X-ray, Biopsy, CT scan, PET scan, CD34 lymphocyte count |
Six types of standard treatment are used to treat Kaposi sarcoma: HAART Radiation therapy Surgery Cryosurgery Chemotherapy Biologic therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Kidney Cancer | Blood in the urine. A lump in the abdomen. A pain in the side that doesn't go away. Loss of appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. Anemia. |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, Urinalysis, MRI, Ultrasound exam, Biopsy, CT scan, PET scan |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery, Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immuno therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis | Headaches, swollen bones, swollen lymph nodes, loss of balance etc. |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, Liver function test, BRAF gene testing, Urinalysis, Water deprivation test, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, Flow cytometry, Pet scan, MRI, CT scan. |
Nine types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Surgery Radiation therapy Photodynamic therapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy Other drug therapy Stem cell transplant Observation |
No specific cure available. |
| Laryngeal Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) | A sore throat or cough that does not go away. Trouble or pain when swallowing. Ear pain. A lump in the neck or throat. A change or hoarseness in the voice. |
Physical exam of the throat and neck and health history, blood chemistry studies, Bone scan, Barium swallow, Biopsy, CT scan, PET scan, |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Radiation therapy Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Leukemia (Hairy cell) | Weakness or feeling tired. Fever or frequent infections. Easy bruising or bleeding. Shortness of breath. Weight loss for no known reason. Pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs. Painless lumps in the neck, underarm, stomach, or groin. |
CT scan, Cytogenetic analysis, BRAF gene testing, Flow cytometry, Immuno phenotyping, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, peripheral blood smear, Physical exam , Complete Blood count, Blood chemistry studies. |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Watchful waiting Chemotherapy Biologic therapy Surgery Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) |
A sore on the lip or in the mouth that does not heal. A lump or thickening on the lips or gums or in the mouth. A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth. Bleeding, pain, or numbness in the lip or mouth. Change in voice. Loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit well. Trouble chewing or swallowing or moving the tongue or jaw. Swelling of jaw. Sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat. |
Phsyical exam, endoscopy, Exfoliative cytology, biopsy, CT scan, MRI, Bone scan, Barium swallow, PET scan. |
Two types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Chemotherapy Hyperfractionated radiation therapy Hyperthermia therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Liver cancer | A hard lump on the right side just below the rib cage. Discomfort in the upper abdomen on the right side. A swollen abdomen. Pain near the right shoulder blade or in the back. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). Easy bruising or bleeding. Unusual tiredness or weakness. Nausea and vomiting. Loss of appetite or feelings of fullness after eating a small meal. Weight loss for no known reason. Pale, chalky bowel movements and dark urine. Fever. |
Physical exam and health history, serum tumor tests, Liver function tests, CT scan, MRI, Ultrasound exam, Biopsy |
Eight types of standard treatment are used: Surveillance Surgery Liver transplant Ablation therapy Embolization therapy Targeted therapy Immunotherapy Radiation therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Lung cancer | Chest discomfort or pain. A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse over time. Trouble breathing. Wheezing. Blood in sputum (mucus coughed up from the lungs). Hoarseness. Trouble swallowing. Loss of appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. Feeling very tired. Swelling in the face and/or veins in the neck. |
Physical exam and health history, Laboratry tests, Chest X-ray, Sputum cytology, biopsy, bronchoscopy, Thoracoscopy, electron and light microscopy, Thoracentesis, Mediastinoscopy, Liver function tests, CT scan, MRI, |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Immunotherapy Laser therapy Endoscopic stent placement |
No specific cure available. |
| Lymphoma | Swelling in the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, groin, or stomach. Fever for no known reason. Drenching night sweats. Feeling very tired. Weight loss for no known reason. Skin rash or itchy skin. Pain in the chest, abdomen, or bones for no known reason. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, LDH test, HIV test, CT scan, Hepatitis B and C test, PET scan, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, lymph node biopsy |
Nine types of standard treatment are used: Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy Plasmapheresis Watchful waiting Antibiotic therapy Surgery Stem cell transplant |
No specific cure available. |
| Male Breast Cancer | A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area. A change in the size or shape of the breast. A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast. A nipple turned inward into the breast. Fluid from the nipple, especially if it's bloody. Scaly, red, or swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola (the dark area of skin around the nipple). Dimples in the breast that look like the skin of an orange, called peau d’orange. |
Clinical breast exam, Mammogram: An x-ray of the breast, Ulttrasound exam, MRI, Blood chemistry studies, Biopsy. |
Five types of standard treatment are used to treat men with breast cancer: Surgery Chemotherapy Hormone therapy Radiation therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone and Osteosarcoma |
Swelling over a bone or bony part of the body. Pain in a bone or joint. A bone that breaks for no known reason. |
Physical Exam CT scan X-ray MRI and Biopsy |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Samarium Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Medulloblastoma and Other CNS Embryonal Tumors | Loss of balance, trouble walking, lack of coordination, or slow speech. Headache, especially in the morning, or headache that goes away after vomiting. General weakness or weakness on one side of the face. Unusual sleepiness or change in energy level. Seizures. Double vision or other eye problems. Nausea and vomiting. |
Physical exam, MRI, Lumbar puncture, Neurological exam. |
Five types of treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Melanoma (skin cancer) | Signs of melanoma include a change in the way a mole or pigmented area looks. |
Physical exam and health history, skin exam, Ultrasound exam, skin biopsy, PET scan, CT scan, MRI, blood chemistry studies. |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy |
Can be cured by surgery once the cancer has not spread across the skin. |
| Melanoma, Intraocular (Eye) | Blurred vision or other change in vision. Floaters (spots that drift in your field of vision) or flashes of light. A dark spot on the iris. A change in the size or shape of the pupil. A change in the position of the eyeball in the eye socket. |
Physical exam and health history, ultrasound exam of the eye, Eye exam with dilated pupil, High-resolution ultrasound biomicroscopy, Transillumination of the globe and iris, occular coherence tomography, flourescein angiography, Indocyanine green angiography, |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Watchful Waiting Radiation therapy Photocoagulation Thermotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Merkel Cell Carcinoma (Skin Cancer) | Merkel cell carcinoma usually appears as a single painless lump on sun-exposed skin. It can be red or violet lumps. |
CT scan, PET scan, Lymp node biopsy, Lymph node dissection, core needle biopsy. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Mesothelioma (Malignant) | Trouble breathing. Cough. Pain under the rib cage. Pain or swelling in the abdomen. Lumps in the abdomen. Constipation. Problems with blood clots (clots form when they shouldn’t). Weight loss for no known reason. Feeling very tired. |
Physical exam and health history, Chest X-ray, CT scan, Biopsy. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Metastatic Cancer | Pain and fractures, when cancer has spread to the bone Headache, seizures, or dizziness, when cancer has spread to the brain Shortness of breath, when cancer has spread to the lung Jaundice or swelling in the belly, when cancer has spread to the liver |
Physical exam, Fecal occult blood test, Urinalysis, blood chemistry studies, Complete blood count, cytogenic analysis, Immunohistochemistry, Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) test, Light and electron microscopy. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Metastatic Squamous Neck Cancer with Occult Primary (Head and Neck Cancer) |
Check with your doctor if you have a lump or pain in your neck or throat that doesn't go away. These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by metastatic squamous neck cancer with occult primary. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, MRI, CT scan, PET scan, biopsy, lymph node biopsy | Two types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Midline Tract Carcinoma With NUT Gene Changes | The signs and symptoms of midline tract carcinoma depend on where the cancer formed in the body. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, MRI, CT scan, Chest X-ray, biopsy, cytogenic analysis. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Mouth Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) | A sore throat that does not go away. Trouble swallowing. Trouble opening the mouth fully. Trouble moving the tongue. Weight loss for no known reason. Ear pain. A lump in the back of the mouth, throat, or neck. A white patch on the tongue or lining of the mouth that does not go away. Coughing up blood. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, MRI, CT scan, biopsy, neurological exam. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapyx Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndromes | A lump in the throat or neck. Trouble breathing. Trouble swallowing. Hoarseness. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, blood hormone studies, MRI, Ultrasound, sestamibi scan, MIBG scan, Venous sampling for an overactive parathyroid gland, Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy, pentagastrin simulation test, Thyroid scan, CT scan, biopsy,Twenty-four-hour urine test |
Many of today's standard treatments for cancer are based on earlier clinical trials. Patients who take part in a clinical trial may receive the standard treatment or be among the first to receive a new treatment. |
No specific cure available. |
| Multiple Myeloma/Plasma Cell Neoplasms | Bone pain, especially in the back or ribs. Bones that break easily. Fever for no known reason or frequent infections. Easy bruising or bleeding. Trouble breathing. Weakness of the arms or legs. Feeling very tired. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, Blood and urine immunoglobulin studies, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, cytogenic analysis, flow cytometry, FISH, skletal bone survey, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential, Twenty-four-hour urine test, MRI, CT scan, PET scan. |
Eight types of treatment are used: Chemotherapy Other drug therapy Targeted therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Biologic therapy Radiation therapy Surgery Watchful waiting |
No specific cure available. |
| Mycosis Fungoides (Lymphoma) | A sign of mycosis fungoides is a red rash on the skin. | Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, CT scan, PET scan, Sezary blood count, skin biopsy |
Seven types of standard treatment are used: Photodynamic therapy Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Other drug therapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy High-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy with stem cell transplant |
No specific cure available. |
| Myelodysplastic Syndromes, Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasms | Shortness of breath. Pale skin. Feeling very tired and weak. Easy bruising or bleeding. Petechiae (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin caused by bleeding). Pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs on the left side. |
CT scan, Cytogenetic analysis, Flow cytometry, Immuno phenotyping, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, peripheral blood smear, Physical exam , Complete Blood count with differntial, Blood chemistry studies. |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Other drug therapy Stem cell transplant Supportive care Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Myelogenous Leukemia (Chronic (CML)) | Feeling very tired. Weight loss for no known reason. Drenching night sweats. Fever. Pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs on the left side. |
CT scan, Cytogenetic analysis, Flow cytometry, Immuno phenotyping, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, FISH, Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction test (RT–PCR), Physical exam , Complete Blood count with differntial, Blood chemistry studies. |
SIx types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Immuno therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Surgery Donor lymphocyte infusion Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Myeloid Leukemia (Acute (AML)) | Fever. Shortness of breath. Easy bruising or bleeding. Petechiae (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin caused by bleeding). Weakness or feeling tired. Weight loss or loss of appetite. |
Physical exam and health history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as infection or anything else that seems unusual. Complete blood count (CBC) with differential: A procedure in which a sample of blood is drawn and checked for the following: The number of red blood cells and platelets. The number and type of white blood cells. The amount of hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells. The portion of the blood sample made up of red blood cells. Blood chemistry studies and bone marrow biopsy are also applied. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Targeted therapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (Chronic) | A feeling of pressure or fullness below the ribs on the left side. Headaches. Double vision or seeing dark or blind spots that come and go. Itching all over the body, especially after being in warm or hot water. Reddened face that looks like a blush or sunburn. Weakness. Dizziness. Weight loss for no known reason. |
CT scan, Cytogenetic analysis, Flow cytometry, Immuno phenotyping, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, peripheral blood smear, Physical exam , Complete Blood count with differntial, Blood chemistry studies. |
Eleven types of standard treatment are used: Watchful waiting Phlebotomy Platelet apheresis Transfusion therapy Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Other drug therapy Surgery Immunotherapy Targeted therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant |
No specific cure available. |
| Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) |
Blocked sinuses that do not clear, or sinus pressure. Headaches or pain in the sinus areas. A runny nose. Nosebleeds. A lump or sore inside the nose that does not heal. A lump on the face or roof of the mouth. Numbness or tingling in the face. Swelling or other trouble with the eyes, such as double vision or the eyes pointing in different directions. Pain in the upper teeth, loose teeth, or dentures that no longer fit well. Pain or pressure in the ear. |
Physical exam, MRI, CT scan, Physical exam of the nose, face, and neck X-rays of the head and neck |
Eleven types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Nasopharyngeal Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) |
A lump in the nose or neck. A sore throat. Trouble breathing or speaking. Nosebleeds. Trouble hearing. Pain or ringing in the ear. Headaches. |
CT scan, MRI, biopsy, Nasoscopy, Physcial exam and health history, neurological exam |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Surgery |
No specific cure available. |
| Neuroblastoma | Fever. Shortness of breath. Feeling tired. Easy bruising or bleeding. Petechiae (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin caused by bleeding). High blood pressure. Severe watery diarrhea. Horner syndrome (droopy eyelid, smaller pupil, and less sweating on one side of the face). Jerky muscle movements. Uncontrolled eye movements. |
Urine catecholamine studies, MIBG scan, CT scan, Neurological exam, MRI, PET scan, Blood chemistry studies,MYCN amplification study |
Seven types of standard treatment are used: Observation Surgery Radiation therapy Iodine 131-MIBG therapy Chemotherapy High-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy with stem cell rescue Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma | Swelling in the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, groin, or stomach. Fever for no known reason. Drenching night sweats. Feeling very tired. Weight loss for no known reason. Skin rash or itchy skin. Pain in the chest, abdomen, or bones for no known reason. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, LDH test, HIV test, CT scan, Hepatitis B and C test, PET scan, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, lymph node biopsy |
Nine types of standard treatment are used: Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy Plasmapheresis Watchful waiting Antibiotic therapy Surgery Stem cell transplant |
No specific cure available. |
| Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer | Chest discomfort or pain. A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse over time. Trouble breathing. Wheezing. Blood in sputum (mucus coughed up from the lungs). Hoarseness. Loss of appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. Feeling very tired. Trouble swallowing. Swelling in the face and/or veins in the neck. |
Physical exam and health history, Laboratry tests, Chest X-ray, Sputum cytology, biopsy, bronchoscopy, Thoracoscopy, electron and light microscopy, Thoracentesis, Mediastinoscopy, Liver function tests, CT scan, MRI, |
Ten types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Targeted therapy Immunotherapy Laser therapy Photodynamic therapy (PDT) Cryosurgery Electrocautery Watchful waiting |
No specific cure available. |
| Oral Cancer, Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer and Oropharyngeal Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) |
A sore throat that does not go away. Trouble swallowing. Trouble opening the mouth fully. Trouble moving the tongue. Weight loss for no known reason. Ear pain. A lump in the back of the mouth, throat, or neck. A white patch on the tongue or lining of the mouth that does not go away. Coughing up blood. |
Phsyical exam, endoscopy, neurological test, biopsy, CT scan, MRI, Bone scan, , PET scan, Laryngoscopy, HPV test, |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Osteosarcoma and Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone |
Swelling over a bone or bony part of the body. Pain in a bone or joint. A bone that breaks for no known reason. |
Physical Exam CT scan X-ray MRI and Biopsy |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Samarium Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Ovarian Cancer | Swollen abdomen without weight gain in other parts of the body. Bleeding from the vagina after menopause (when you are no longer having menstrual periods). |
Physical exam, Laparotomy, Pelvic exam, CT scan (CAT scan), Serum tumor marker test |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Observation Chemotherapy Radiation therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Pancreatic Cancer | Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). Light-colored stools. Dark urine. Pain in the upper or middle abdomen and back. Weight loss for no known reason. Loss of appetite. Feeling very tired. |
Physical exam, , PET scan, MRI, CT scan (CAT scan), Serum tumor marker test, Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography, Laparascopy, Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), Abdominal ultrasound, endoscopic ultrasound. |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Chemoradiation therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (Islet Cell Tumors) | Diarrhea. Indigestion. A lump in the abdomen. Pain in the abdomen or back. Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. |
Physical exam, PET scan, MRI, blood chemsirty studies, intraoperative ultrasound, Chromogranin A test, Laparatomy, bone scan, Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), Abdominal CT scan, endoscopic ultrasound, angiogram, Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy, biopsy. | Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Hormone therapy Hepatic arterial occlusion or chemoembolization Targeted therapy Supportive care |
No specific cure available. |
| Papillomatosis (Childhood Laryngeal) | A sore throat or cough that does not go away. Trouble or pain when swallowing. Ear pain. A lump in the neck or throat. A change or hoarseness in the voice. |
Physical exam of the throat and neck and health history, blood chemistry studies, Bone scan, Barium swallow, Biopsy, CT scan, PET scan, |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Radiation therapy Surgery Chemotherapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Paraganglioma | High blood pressure. Headache. Heavy sweating for no known reason. A strong, fast, or irregular heartbeat. Being shaky. Being extremely pale. |
Physical exam and health history, CT scan, MRI, Biopsy, Blood catecholamine studies, Twenty-four-hour urine test. |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Ablation therapy Embolization therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) |
Blocked sinuses that do not clear, or sinus pressure. Headaches or pain in the sinus areas. A runny nose. Nosebleeds. A lump or sore inside the nose that does not heal. A lump on the face or roof of the mouth. Numbness or tingling in the face. Swelling or other trouble with the eyes, such as double vision or the eyes pointing in different directions. Pain in the upper teeth, loose teeth, or dentures that no longer fit well. Pain or pressure in the ear. |
Physical exam, MRI, CT scan, Physical exam of the nose, face, and neck X-rays of the head and neck |
Eleven types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Parathyroid Cancer | Pain in the abdomen, side, or back that doesn't go away. Pain in the bones. A broken bone. A lump in the neck. Change in voice such as hoarseness. Trouble swallowing. |
Physical exam and health history, Parthyroid hormone test, CT scan, Sestamibi scan, SPECT scan, Ultrasound exam, angiogram, venuous sampling. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Supportive care |
No specific cure available. |
| Penile Cancer | Signs of penile cancer include sores, discharge, and bleeding from the penis |
Physical exam and health history, CT scan, PET scan, Biospsy, Ultrasound exam, chest X-ray. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Biologic therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Pharyngeal Cancer (Head and Neck Cancer) | A sore throat that does not go away. Trouble swallowing. Trouble opening the mouth fully. Trouble moving the tongue. Weight loss for no known reason. Ear pain. A lump in the back of the mouth, throat, or neck. A white patch on the tongue or lining of the mouth that does not go away. Coughing up blood. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, MRI, CT scan, biopsy, neurological exam. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapyx Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Pheochromocytoma | High blood pressure. Headache. Heavy sweating for no known reason. A strong, fast, or irregular heartbeat. Being shaky. Being extremely pale. |
Physical exam and health history, CT scan, MRI, Biopsy, Blood catecholamine studies, Twenty-four-hour urine test. |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Ablation therapy Embolization therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Pituitary Tumor | Nausea and vomiting. Confusion. Dizziness. Seizures. Runny or "drippy" nose (cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord leaks into the nose). |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, MRI, Eye exam, visual filed exam, neurological exam, Blood tests, Twenty-four-hour urine test, biopsy, High-dose dexamethasone suppression test, Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test, Venous sampling for pituitary tumors, immunocytochemistry. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Drug therapy Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. |
No specific cure available. |
| Plasma Cell Neoplasm/Multiple Myeloma | Bone pain, especially in the back or ribs. Bones that break easily. Fever for no known reason or frequent infections. Easy bruising or bleeding. Trouble breathing. Weakness of the arms or legs. Feeling very tired. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, Blood and urine immunoglobulin studies, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, cytogenic analysis, flow cytometry, FISH, skletal bone survey, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential, Twenty-four-hour urine test, MRI, CT scan, PET scan. |
Eight types of treatment are used: Chemotherapy Other drug therapy Targeted therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant Biologic therapy Radiation therapy Surgery Watchful waiting |
No specific cure available. |
| Pleuropulmonary Blastoma (Lung Cancer) | A cough that doesn’t go away. Trouble breathing. Fever. Lung infections, such as pneumonia. Pain in the chest or abdomen. Loss of appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. |
Physical exam and ealth history, CT scan, Chest X-ray, PET scan, Bone scan, MRI, Bronchoscopy, Thoracoscopy. |
Two types of standard treatment are used for pleuropulmonary blastoma: Surgery Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Targeted therapy Treatment for pleuropulmonary blastoma may cause side effects. |
No specific cure available. |
| Pregnancy and Breast Cancer | A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area. A change in the size or shape of the breast. A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast. A nipple turned inward into the breast. Fluid, other than breast milk, from the nipple, especially if it's bloody. Scaly, red, or swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola (the dark area of skin around the nipple). Dimples in the breast that look like the skin of an orange, called peau d’orange. |
Clinical breast exam, Mammogram: An x-ray of the breast, Ulttrasound exam, MRI, Blood chemistry studies, Biopsy. |
Breast cancer is usually treated with surgery and then probably with chemotherapy or radiation, or both. Hormone positive cancer is cured with long term hormone blocking therapy. Breast cancer treatments are offered with increasing aggressiveness according to the prognosis & risk of recurrence |
No specific cure available. |
| Primary Central Nervous System (CNS) Lymphoma | Swelling in the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, groin, or stomach. Fever for no known reason. Drenching night sweats. Feeling very tired. Weight loss for no known reason. Skin rash or itchy skin. Pain in the chest, abdomen, or bones for no known reason. |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, LDH test, HIV test, CT scan, Hepatitis B and C test, PET scan, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, lymph node biopsy |
Nine types of standard treatment are used: Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy Plasmapheresis Watchful waiting Antibiotic therapy Surgery Stem cell transplant |
No specific cure available. |
| Primary Peritoneal Cancer | Pain, swelling, or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen or pelvis. Vaginal bleeding that is heavy or irregular, especially after menopause. Vaginal discharge that is clear, white, or colored with blood. A lump in the pelvic area. Gastrointestinal problems, such as gas, bloating, or constipation. |
Physical exam and health history, pelvic exam, Ultrasound exam, CA 125 assay, CT scan, MRI, PET scan, Biopsy. |
Three kinds of standard treatment are used. Surgery Chemotherapy Targeted therapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Radiation therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Prostate cancer | Weak or interrupted ("stop-and-go") flow of urine. Sudden urge to urinate. Frequent urination (especially at night). Trouble starting the flow of urine. Trouble emptying the bladder completely. Pain or burning while urinating. Blood in the urine or semen. A pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn't go away. Shortness of breath, feeling very tired, fast heartbeat, dizziness, or pale skin caused by anemia. |
Physical exam, digital rectal exam (DRE), Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, Transrectal ultrasound, Transrectal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), biopsy, ProstaScint scan, semianl vessicle biopsy, Pelvic lymphadenectomy. |
There are many options available for prostate cancer treatment. Prostate cancer treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, proton therapy, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, cryosurgery, and high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) |
Can be cured with chemotherapy when diagnosed in the early stages. Patients have 98% chance of recovery. |
| Rare Cancers of Childhood | Can occur at any part of the body and not usually found in children |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, HIV test, CT scan, PET scan, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, biopsy etc |
Common types of treatments can be used depending on the type of tumor. |
No specific cure available. |
| Rectal Cancer | Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool. A change in bowel habits. Diarrhea. Constipation. Feeling that the bowel does not empty completely. Stools that are narrower or have a different shape than usual. General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps). Change in appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. Feeling very tired. |
Physical exam and health history, Digital rectal exam, Colonoscopy, Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) assay, biopsy |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Active surveillance Targeted therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Recurrent Cancer | Can reoccur at any part of the body and not usually found in children |
Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, HIV test, CT scan, PET scan, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, biopsy etc |
The type of treatment that you have for recurrent cancer will depend on your type of cancer and how far it has spread. |
No specific cure available. |
| Renal Cell (Kidney) Cancer | Blood in the urine. A lump in the abdomen. A pain in the side that doesn't go away. Loss of appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. Anemia. |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, Urinalysis, MRI, Ultrasound exam, Biopsy, CT scan, PET scan |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery, Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immuno therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Retinoblastoma | Eyes that appear to be looking in different directions (crossed eyes). Pain or redness in the eye. Infection around the eye. Eyeball that is larger than normal. Colored part of the eye and pupil look cloudy. |
Physical exam and health history, eye exam with dilated pupil, RB1 gene test, Ophthalmoscopy, Ultrasound exam of the eye, flourescein angiography, MRI |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Cryotherapy Thermotherapy Chemotherapy Radiation therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue Surgery (enucleation) |
No specific cure available. |
| Salivary Gland cancer | A lump (usually painless) in the area of the ear, cheek, jaw, lip, or inside the mouth. Fluid draining from the ear. Trouble swallowing or opening the mouth widely. Numbness or weakness in the face. Pain in the face that does not go away. |
Physical exam and history, MRI, CT scan, PET scan, endoscopy, Biopsy. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Radiosensitizers |
No specific cure available. |
| Sarcoma (Ewing) | Pain and/or swelling, usually in the arms, legs, chest, back, or pelvis. A lump (which may feel soft and warm) in the arms, legs, chest, or pelvis. Fever for no known reason. A bone that breaks for no known reason. |
Phsycial exam and health history, MRI, PET scan, CT scan, Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, Bone scan, X-ray, Complete blood count, Blood chemistry studies. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Surgery High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue |
No specific cure available. |
| Sézary Syndrome | A sign of mycosis fungoides is a red rash on the skin. | Physcial exam, blood chemistry studies, CT scan, PET scan, Sezary blood count, skin biopsy |
Seven types of standard treatment are used: Photodynamic therapy Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Other drug therapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy High-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy with stem cell transplant |
No specific cure available. |
| Small Cell Lung Cancer | Chest discomfort or pain. A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse over time. Trouble breathing. Wheezing. Blood in sputum (mucus coughed up from the lungs). Hoarseness. Trouble swallowing. Loss of appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. Feeling very tired. Swelling in the face and/or veins in the neck. |
Physical exam and health history, Laboratry tests, Chest X-ray, Sputum cytology, biopsy, bronchoscopy, Thoracoscopy, electron and light microscopy, Thoracentesis, Mediastinoscopy, Liver function tests, CT scan, MRI, |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Immunotherapy Laser therapy Endoscopic stent placement |
No specific cure available. |
| Small Intestine Cancer | Pain or cramps in the middle of the abdomen. Weight loss with no known reason. A lump in the abdomen. Blood in the stool. |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, Liver function test, Laparotomy, biopsy, Upper GI series with small bowel follow-through, Flow cytometry, Pet scan, MRI, CT scan. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Biologic therapy Radiation therapy with radiosensitizers |
No specific cure available. |
| Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin | A sore that does not heal. Areas of the skin that are: Small, raised, smooth, shiny, and waxy. Small, raised, and red or reddish-brown. Flat, rough, red or brown, and scaly. Scaly, bleeding, or crusty. Similar to a scar and firm. |
Physical exam and health history, skin exam, Ultrasound exam, skin biopsy, PET scan, CT scan, MRI, blood chemistry studies. |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Immunotherapy Targeted therapy |
Can be cured by surgery once the cancer has not spread across the skin. |
| Stomach (Gastric) Cancer | Blood in the stool. Vomiting. Weight loss for no known reason. Stomach pain. Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin). Ascites (build-up of fluid in the abdomen). Trouble swallowing. |
Physical exam, Barium swallow, Upper endoscopy, CT scan, Biospsy, Complete blood count, Blood chemistry studies. |
Seven types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Endoscopic mucosal resection Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Chemoradiation Targeted therapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Soft-tissue sarcoma | Painless lump under the skin (arm or leg), Pain. Trouble breathing. |
Biopsy, FISH, Flow cytometry, Physical examination, MRI. |
Skin cancer treatment may include curettage and desiccation, surgical excision, cryosurgery, Mohs micrographic surgery, radiation therapy, medical therapy using creams etc. |
No specific cure available. |
| Throat cancer | A sore throat that does not go away. Trouble swallowing. Trouble opening the mouth fully. Trouble moving the tongue. Weight loss for no known reason. Ear pain. A lump in the back of the mouth, throat, or neck. A white patch on the tongue or lining of the mouth that does not go away. Coughing up blood. |
Phsyical exam, endoscopy, neurological test, biopsy, CT scan, MRI, Bone scan, , PET scan, Laryngoscopy, HPV test, |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Testicular cancer | A painless lump or swelling in either testicle. A change in how the testicle feels. A dull ache in the lower abdomen or the groin. A sudden build-up of fluid in the scrotum. Pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum. |
Physical exam and health history, Serum tumor marker test, Ultrasound exam of the testes, Inguinal orchiectomy |
There are many options available for prostate cancer treatment. Prostate cancer treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, proton therapy, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, cryosurgery, and high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) |
Can be cured with chemotherapy when discovered in the first stage |
| Thymoma and Thymic Carcinoma | A cough that doesn't go away. Shortness of breath. Chest pain. A hoarse voice. Swelling in the face, neck, upper body, or arms. |
Physical exam and health history, CT scan, PET scan, MRI, Biopsy, Chest X-ray |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Thyroid cancers | A lump (nodule) in the neck. Trouble breathing. Trouble swallowing. Pain when swallowing. Hoarseness. |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, blood hormone studies, Laryngoscopy, CT scan, Fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid, surgical biopsy. |
Six types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy, including radioactive iodine therapy Chemotherapy Thyroid hormone therapy Targeted therapy Watchful waiting New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Immunotherapy |
Radiotherapy can be used to cure this disease when detected at its early stages. |
| Tracheobronchial Tumors (Lung Cancer) | Dry cough. Wheezing. Trouble breathing. Spitting up blood from the airways or lung. Frequent infections in the lung, such as pneumonia. Feeling very tired. Loss of appetite or weight loss for no known reason. |
Physical exam and health history, Bronchoscopy, CT scan, chest X-ray. | Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Transitional Cell Cancer of the Renal Pelvis and Ureter (Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer) |
Blood in the urine. A pain in the back that doesn't go away. Extreme tiredness. Weight loss with no known reason. Painful or frequent urination. |
Physical exam and health history, Ureteroscopy Urinalysis, Urine cytology, CT scan, Ultrasound tests, biopsy, MRI |
One type of standard treatment is used: Surgery New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Fulguration Segmental resection of the renal pelvis Laser surgery Regional chemotherapy and regional biologic therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Ureter and Renal Pelvis Transitional Cell Cancer | Blood in the urine. A pain in the back that doesn't go away. Extreme tiredness. Weight loss with no known reason. Painful or frequent urination. |
Physical exam and health history, Ureteroscopy Urinalysis, Urine cytology, CT scan, Ultrasound tests, biopsy, MRI |
One type of standard treatment is used: Surgery New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Fulguration Segmental resection of the renal pelvis Laser surgery Regional chemotherapy and regional biologic therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Urethral Cancer | Trouble starting the flow of urine. Weak or interrupted ("stop-and-go") flow of urine. Frequent urination, especially at night. Incontinence. Discharge from the urethra. Bleeding from the urethra or blood in the urine. A lump or thickness in the perineum or penis. A painless lump or swelling in the groin. |
Physical exam and health history, Pelvic scan, Ureteroscopy, Digital Rectal scan (DRE), Urinalysis, Urine cytology, CT scan, Ultrasound tests, biopsy, MRI, complete blood count (CBC). |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Active surveillance |
No specific cure available. |
| Endometrial Uterine Cancer | Vaginal bleeding or discharge not related to menstruation (periods). Difficult or painful urination. Vagina bleeding after menopauuse. Pain during sexual intercourse Pain in the pelvic area |
Endometrial biopsy, dilatation and curettage, Hysteroscopy, Physical exam and health history, Transvaginal ultrasound exam |
Five types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy Targeted therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Uterine Sarcoma | Bleeding that is not part of menstrual periods. Bleeding after menopause. A mass in the vagina. Pain or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen. Frequent urination. |
Endometrial biopsy, dilatation and curettage, Physical exam and health history, Transvaginal ultrasound exam, Pap test, Pelvic scan. | Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Vaginal Cancer | Bleeding or discharge not related to menstrual periods. Pain during sexual intercourse. Pain in the pelvic area. A lump in the vagina. Pain when urinating. Constipation. |
Physical exam and health history, Biopsy, Pap test, Pelvic scan, The cells are checked under a microscope for signs of disease, Human papillomavirus (HPV) test, colposcopy, Proctoscopy, MRI, Ct scan, PET scan. |
Three types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials. Immunotherapy Radiosensitizers |
No specific cure available. |
| Vascular Tumors (Soft Tissue Sarcoma) | Most infantile hemangiomas are not present at birth but precursor lesions such as telangiectasia or faint discoloration of the skin or hypopigmentation can often be seen. The lesion can be mistaken as a bruise from birth trauma or as a capillary malformation |
Biopsy, FISH, Flow cytometry, Physical examination, MRI. |
Skin cancer treatment may include curettage and desiccation, surgical excision, cryosurgery, Mohs micrographic surgery, radiation therapy, medical therapy using creams etc. |
No specific cure available. |
| Vulvar Cancer | A lump or growth on the vulva that looks like a wart or ulcer. Itching in the vulvar area that does not go away. Bleeding not related to menstruation (periods). Pain in the vulvar area. |
Physical exam and health history, Biopsy, Pap test, Pelvic scan, The cells are checked under a microscope for signs of disease, Human papillomavirus (HPV) test, colposcopy, Proctoscopy, MRI, Ct scan, PET scan. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Immunotherapy |
No specific cure available. |
| Wilms Tumor and Other Childhood Kidney Tumors | A lump, swelling, or pain in the abdomen. Blood in the urine. High blood pressure (headache, feeling very tired, chest pain, or trouble seeing or breathing). Hypercalcemia (loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, weakness, or feeling very tired). Fever for no known reason. Loss of appetite. Weight loss for no known reason. |
Physical exam and health history, blood chemistry studies, Urinalysis, MRI, Ultrasound exam, Biopsy, CT scan, PET scan, Renal funtion tests, X-ray. |
Four types of standard treatment are used: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Immuno therapy High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue |
No specific cure available. |
| Young Adults Cancer | Tumors that commonly grow among adolescents | Biopsy, physical exam and health history, CT scan, PET scan, MRI. | Standard medical care (also called standard of care) is treatment that experts agree is appropriate and accepted for a specific disease |
No specific cure available. |
