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Cancer    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Carcinoma; Malignant tumor

Treatment

Treatment also varies based on the type of cancer and its stage. The stage of a cancer refers to whether or not the tumor has spread from its original location. If the cancer is confined to one location and has not spread, the goal for treatment would be surgery and cure. This is often the case with skin cancers. If the tumor has spread to local lymph nodes only, sometimes these can also be removed. If all of the cancer cannot be removed with surgery, the options for treatment include radiation, chemotherapy, or both. Some cancers require a combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

Prognosis

Prognosis varies widely among different types of cancer. Even amongst people with one particular type of cancer, the outcome varies depending on the stage of the tumor at diagnosis. Some cancers can be cured, some that are not curable can still be treated well and some patients can live for many years with the cancer. Other tumors are rapidly fatal.

Complications

Spread of the cancer and death.

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

You should contact your doctor if you develop signs or symptoms of cancer.

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