Condition Lookup

Neuroblastoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Symptoms:
abdominal mass; pain; fever; weight loss; bone pain; bulging eyes; high blood pressure

Root Cause:
Cancer originating in nerve tissue, most commonly in the adrenal glands, sympathetic nervous system, or nerve tissue along the neck, chest, abdomen, or pelvis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound), biopsy, urine tests for catecholamine metabolites (VMA, HVA), bone marrow aspiration.

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like cyclophosphamide , vincristine , doxorubicin , and cisplatin ; Immunotherapy drugs such as dinutuximab (Unituxin ); Pain medications such as acetaminophen or opioids for severe pain.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 100,000 children; accounts for 6-10% of pediatric cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations (e.g., MYCN amplification), family history, certain congenital conditions like Hirschsprung disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the stage at diagnosis, age of the child, and response to treatment. The survival rate is approximately 70-80% for low-risk cases but significantly lower for high-risk cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tumor metastasis, organ dysfunction, hearing loss, developmental delays, long-term effects from chemotherapy and radiation.

Retinoblastoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
white or red eye reflex (leukocoria); strabismus; vision problems; eye pain; swelling around the eye

Root Cause:
Malignant tumor that arises from the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye examination, fundus photography, ultrasound, MRI, genetic testing for RB1 gene mutations.

Treatment:
Surgery (enucleation), chemotherapy, laser therapy, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, intra-arterial chemotherapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like carboplatin , vincristine , etoposide ; medications for pain management or to control side effects.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 1 in 15,000 live births, with approximately 300 cases per year in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of retinoblastoma, RB1 gene mutations (inherited or spontaneous).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High survival rate if diagnosed early; 95% survival for unilateral, localized cases; poor prognosis for metastatic disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vision loss, metastasis (rare), secondary cancers later in life due to radiation or chemotherapy.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Treatment-Related Complications

Symptoms:
hyperkalemia; hyperphosphatemia; hypocalcemia; elevated creatinine; nausea; vomiting; fatigue; muscle cramps; seizures

Root Cause:
The rapid release of intracellular contents from dying tumor cells, often after chemotherapy or other treatments, leading to metabolic disturbances.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests to measure levels of potassium, phosphate, calcium, creatinine, and uric acid. Clinical presentation and history of recent cancer treatment.

Treatment:
Hydration, medications to control electrolyte imbalances (e.g., sodium bicarbonate, allopurinol), dialysis if necessary, and monitoring in a hospital setting.

Medications:
Allopurinol (a xanthine oxidase inhibitor that reduces uric acid production), Rasburicase (an enzyme that breaks down uric acid), Sodium bicarbonate (to alkalinize urine and prevent uric acid crystallization), Calcium gluconate (to treat hypocalcemia), Potassium binders (to reduce hyperkalemia). These medications are considered urate-lowering agents, electrolyte modifiers, and anti-hyperkalemic agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
This is a relatively rare condition, occurring in approximately 5-10% of patients receiving chemotherapy for high-grade hematologic cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High tumor burden, especially in hematologic malignancies, rapid tumor cell turnover, and treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early detection and treatment, prognosis can be good. However, untreated tumor lysis syndrome can lead to organ failure and death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Renal failure, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and death if not managed promptly.

Osteosarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Bone Sarcomas

Symptoms:
pain in the bone or joint; swelling or a lump near the affected area; limited range of motion if near a joint; fractures due to weakened bone; redness or warmth in the affected area

Root Cause:
Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that originates in the osteoblasts (cells that form bone tissue). It most commonly affects the long bones (e.g., femur, tibia, humerus).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, followed by a biopsy of the tumor to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment:
Treatment generally includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. Surgical resection of the tumor is the primary treatment, often followed by chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs, including methotrexate , doxorubicin , and cisplatin , are commonly prescribed. These are cytotoxic drugs used to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. Pain medications may also be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Osteosarcoma is relatively rare, accounting for approximately 3% of all cancers in children and adolescents, with around 400 new cases annually in the United States.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, familial retinoblastoma, and Rothmund-Thomson syndrome increase risk. Previous radiation therapy and rapid bone growth (in teens) are also risk factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis and the response to treatment. The 5-year survival rate for localized osteosarcoma can be as high as 70%, but decreases significantly if the cancer has metastasized.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include metastasis (especially to the lungs), recurrence of the tumor, and side effects from chemotherapy (e.g., cardiovascular issues, hearing loss).

Chondrosarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Bone Sarcomas

Symptoms:
persistent pain at the tumor site, especially at night; swelling or a mass near the affected area; limited mobility if the tumor is near a joint; bone fractures due to weakened bone

Root Cause:
Chondrosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that begins in cartilage cells. It typically occurs in the pelvis, femur, or shoulder blades and grows slowly compared to other bone cancers.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. A biopsy is required to confirm the presence of cancer cells and to distinguish it from benign cartilage tumors.

Treatment:
Treatment mainly involves surgery to remove the tumor. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used in cases of high-grade or metastatic chondrosarcoma, though the tumor is often resistant to these treatments.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like methotrexate and doxorubicin may be used, although they are often less effective than in other sarcomas. Pain management includes NSAIDs or stronger opioids for pain relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Chondrosarcoma is relatively rare, accounting for about 20% of all primary bone cancers. It most commonly affects adults over the age of 40.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions such as Ollier disease and Maffucci syndrome are associated with an increased risk. A history of previous radiation therapy may also increase risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis varies depending on the tumor grade and location. Low-grade chondrosarcoma has a better prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of about 80%, while high-grade tumors have a much poorer prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include local recurrence, metastasis (typically to the lungs), and post-surgical complications like infection or loss of function.

Carcinoid Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
flushing; diarrhea; abdominal pain; wheezing; heart valve problems; weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Carcinoid tumors arise from neuroendocrine cells, which produce hormones such as serotonin and other chemicals. These tumors often grow slowly and can secrete hormones that affect various body systems.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically through imaging studies such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans, and blood tests measuring elevated levels of serotonin or 5-HIAA (a serotonin metabolite). Biopsy and histopathological examination confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Treatment may include surgery to remove the tumor, somatostatin analogs (like octreotide) to control symptoms, chemotherapy, and in some cases, liver-directed therapies (such as ablation or embolization) if the tumors have spread to the liver.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide and lanreotide ) are often prescribed to control symptoms and inhibit hormone secretion. These medications are classified as peptide receptor drugs and can help reduce flushing and diarrhea. Chemotherapy agents may also be used, depending on the tumor's progression, such as streptozocin and temozolomide , which are alkylating agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Carcinoid tumors are rare, accounting for about 0.5% of all cancers, but the incidence of neuroendocrine tumors is rising, with an estimated prevalence of 2-5 cases per 100,000 people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (more common in older adults), a family history of neuroendocrine tumors, certain inherited genetic syndromes (such as MEN1 and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome), and conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract like Crohn's disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the location and spread of the tumor. Localized tumors have a relatively good prognosis with surgery, but metastatic or advanced cases can be more challenging to treat. The 5-year survival rate for localized carcinoid tumors is around 80%, while it drops significantly with distant metastases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include carcinoid syndrome (which leads to flushing, diarrhea, and heart valve problems), liver metastasis, and malnutrition due to nutrient malabsorption from the gastrointestinal symptoms.

Germ Cell Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; swelling; mass or lump; difficulty breathing; chest pain

Root Cause:
Tumors originating from germ cells (cells that give rise to sperm and eggs) in the gonads or extragonadal sites.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound), biopsy, blood tests (e.g., for tumor markers like AFP, hCG).

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin , etoposide , bleomycin .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, but germ cell tumors are the most common type of ovarian and testicular cancer in children.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes, prior gonadal surgery.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good prognosis with surgery and chemotherapy, particularly for localized tumors.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, infertility, long-term effects of treatment.

Liposarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Symptoms:
painful or painless mass; swelling or lump in soft tissue; decreased mobility due to tumor growth; weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Liposarcoma is a malignant tumor arising from fat cells, typically within the soft tissues of the body. It involves the abnormal growth of adipocytes (fat cells).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, followed by a biopsy to confirm malignancy.

Treatment:
Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the tumor. Radiation therapy may be used post-operatively to decrease recurrence risk, and chemotherapy may be considered for more advanced cases.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin (an anthracycline) and ifosfamide (an alkylating agent) are used in cases of advanced disease. These drugs fall under the category of anti-cancer agents, specifically cytotoxic chemotherapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Liposarcoma accounts for about 20% of all soft tissue sarcomas. It is rare, with an estimated annual incidence of 1 in 1 million people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (more common in adults aged 40-60), previous radiation therapy, genetic factors (such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the tumor's grade and stage at diagnosis. Low-grade tumors have a better prognosis, while high-grade or metastatic liposarcomas have a worse prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence after surgery, metastasis to lungs or other organs, complications from chemotherapy such as fatigue and immunosuppression.

Leiomyosarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Symptoms:
painful lump; abdominal discomfort (if intra-abdominal); nausea; weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Leiomyosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor that arises from smooth muscle cells, which are found in organs such as the stomach, intestines, and blood vessels.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans, and confirmed with biopsy for histological examination.

Treatment:
Surgical removal of the tumor is the primary treatment. In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy is used if the tumor cannot be completely resected or if it is metastatic.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as doxorubicin and ifosfamide are commonly used. These drugs belong to the class of anthracyclines and alkylating agents, respectively, and are employed to treat various sarcomas.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Leiomyosarcoma accounts for approximately 10% of all soft tissue sarcomas. It is relatively rare, with an incidence rate of 0.3 per 100,000 people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous radiation therapy, age (commonly affects adults), genetic disorders such as hereditary leiomyomatosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on tumor size, grade, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. Recurrence is common, and the survival rate is lower for high-grade tumors.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of metastasis to the lungs, complications from surgery, recurrence of the tumor.

Synovial Sarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Symptoms:
painful mass; swelling; restricted joint movement; fatigue; fever in advanced cases

Root Cause:
Synovial sarcoma is a rare form of soft tissue cancer that typically develops near joints, particularly in the limbs, and originates from synovial cells, which are part of the lining of joints.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging (MRI, CT scans) and biopsy. A molecular test may be done to detect the specific gene translocation (SYT-SSX fusion gene).

Treatment:
Surgical resection is the primary treatment. If the tumor is inoperable or has spread, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like cyclophosphamide , ifosfamide , and doxorubicin may be prescribed. These are cytotoxic chemotherapy agents that target rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Synovial sarcoma is a rare condition, making up about 5% of all soft tissue sarcomas. It typically affects adolescents and young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (commonly affects young adults), genetic mutations (SYT-SSX fusion gene), male gender.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the size, location, and grade of the tumor. The survival rate is generally lower for tumors with metastasis at diagnosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Local recurrence, metastasis (especially to the lungs), complications from chemotherapy or radiation.

Angiosarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Symptoms:
painful mass; skin discoloration; swelling; bleeding or bruising; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
Angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that arises from the lining of blood vessels or lymphatic vessels, leading to abnormal growth of endothelial cells.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through imaging techniques like MRI, CT scans, and a biopsy to confirm malignancy.

Treatment:
Surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment. For advanced or metastatic cases, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as paclitaxel (a taxane) and doxorubicin (an anthracycline) are used to treat angiosarcoma. These agents are cytotoxic and target rapidly dividing cells.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Angiosarcoma is rare, representing about 2% of all soft tissue sarcomas, with an annual incidence of approximately 0.3 per million people.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous radiation therapy, chronic lymphedema (Stewart-Treves syndrome), certain genetic syndromes (e.g., neurofibromatosis type 1).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Angiosarcoma has a poor prognosis due to its aggressive nature. The survival rate depends on the tumor's location, size, and whether it has spread.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
High risk of metastasis, particularly to the lungs and liver, recurrence, and complications from aggressive treatment regimens.

Ewing Sarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
bone pain; swelling; fever; fatigue; weight loss

Root Cause:
A type of bone cancer that most often affects the long bones, pelvis, and chest wall.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
X-rays, CT scans, MRI, biopsy, bone scans.

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents such as vincristine , doxorubicin , cyclophosphamide , ifosfamide , etoposide .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Ewing sarcoma is rare, accounting for about 1-2% of childhood cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations, family history.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Survival rates range from 70% for localized disease to lower rates for metastatic disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tumor recurrence, long-term effects from chemotherapy and radiation, organ damage.

Wilms Tumor

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal mass; abdominal pain; fever; blood in urine; high blood pressure; poor appetite; weight loss

Root Cause:
A type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children, usually involving one kidney, but can occasionally involve both.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, biopsy, blood and urine tests.

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like vincristine , actinomycin D, and doxorubicin ; pain relievers such as ibuprofen or morphine for post-surgical pain management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 7-10% of childhood cancers, with around 500 cases diagnosed annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions like WAGR syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, or Li-Fraumeni syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
90% survival rate in localized cases; survival rates decrease in cases with metastasis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, kidney damage, long-term effects from chemotherapy or radiation, high blood pressure.

Rhabdomyosarcoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
painless mass or swelling; pain at the site of tumor; difficulty swallowing or breathing; eye bulging or changes in vision

Root Cause:
A cancer of the muscle tissue, often occurring in areas such as the head, neck, bladder, or limbs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound), biopsy, blood tests, bone marrow aspiration.

Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as vincristine , cyclophosphamide , doxorubicin , ifosfamide , etoposide ; pain management medications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Around 4 cases per million children per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes (e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome), previous radiation exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The survival rate varies based on the stage, location, and histology of the tumor, ranging from 60% to 80% for localized disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tumor recurrence, organ dysfunction, long-term side effects from treatments.

Medulloblastoma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
headaches; vomiting; balance problems; vision problems; personality changes; clumsiness

Root Cause:
Malignant tumor in the cerebellum (part of the brain), which affects balance, motor control, and coordination.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
MRI, CT scan, biopsy, cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

Treatment:
Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin , vincristine , cyclophosphamide , carboplatin ; corticosteroids for swelling.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 20% of all brain tumors in children, with around 350 cases annually in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions (e.g., Gorlin syndrome), prior radiation exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Survival rate is about 70% for localized cases, but much lower for metastatic disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological impairments, growth problems, cognitive and motor deficits, secondary cancers due to radiation.

Pediatric Leukemias

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
fatigue; fever; paleness; bone or joint pain; bleeding or bruising; infections

Root Cause:
Abnormal proliferation of white blood cells in the bone marrow and blood, leading to impaired blood cell production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, lumbar puncture, flow cytometry.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, radiation therapy, targeted therapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as methotrexate , vincristine , prednisone , cytarabine ; targeted agents like imatinib for certain types.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The most common cancer in children, with about 3,500 new cases of leukemia in children under 15 in the U.S. annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome), family history, environmental exposures (e.g., radiation).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High cure rates for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), with survival rates over 90% for low-risk cases; acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) has a more variable prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infections, bleeding, organ damage, secondary cancers due to chemotherapy or radiation.

Pediatric Lymphomas

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Pediatric Cancers

Symptoms:
swollen lymph nodes; fever; night sweats; weight loss; fatigue; itching

Root Cause:
Cancer of the lymphatic system; can be either Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lymph node biopsy, imaging (CT, PET, MRI), blood tests.

Treatment:
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like doxorubicin , vincristine , cyclophosphamide , etoposide ; targeted therapies like rituximab .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Lymphomas make up 5-7% of all pediatric cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic syndromes, compromised immune system, Epstein-Barr virus infection (for HL).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High cure rates for Hodgkin lymphoma (over 90% for localized disease), while non-Hodgkin lymphoma prognosis depends on subtype and staging.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary cancers, organ damage from treatment, fertility issues, infections.

Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; diarrhea; flushing; wheezing; fatigue; unexplained weight loss; heart palpitations; skin rashes

Root Cause:
Neuroendocrine tumors are cancers that develop from neuroendocrine cells, which have characteristics of both nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. These tumors can occur in various parts of the body, most commonly the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and lungs. They can secrete hormones, leading to symptoms like flushing and diarrhea.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is through imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans to locate the tumor, blood tests for elevated hormone levels (e.g., chromogranin A, serotonin), and biopsy for histological confirmation.

Treatment:
Treatment often involves surgical resection of the tumor, if localized, and medications such as somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide or lanreotide) to manage symptoms. Chemotherapy and targeted therapies (e.g., everolimus, sunitinib) may be used for advanced or metastatic disease. In some cases, liver-directed treatments (like embolization) or peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) are used for metastases.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs like octreotide and lanreotide help control the symptoms and reduce hormone secretion. These are classified as peptide receptor drugs. For advanced NETs, chemotherapy agents like temozolomide or streptozocin (alkylating agents) and targeted therapies like everolimus (an mTOR inhibitor) and sunitinib (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor) may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The incidence of NETs has been increasing, with an estimated prevalence of around 2-3 cases per 100,000 individuals per year. NETs are rare but more common in older adults, with gastrointestinal and pancreatic NETs being the most frequent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (more common in people over 50), a family history of NETs, genetic conditions like multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, and neurofibromatosis type 1.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies based on tumor type, location, and stage at diagnosis. For localized NETs, the 5-year survival rate is generally favorable (70-80%), while advanced or metastatic NETs have a lower survival rate (around 30-40%).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include metastasis to the liver or other organs, carcinoid syndrome (which includes symptoms like flushing, diarrhea, and heart valve issues), hormonal imbalances, and malabsorption due to gastrointestinal involvement.

Small Intestine Cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; unexplained weight loss; nausea; vomiting; jaundice; blood in stool; changes in bowel habits; fatigue

Root Cause:
Small intestine cancer develops in the cells of the small intestine, often affecting the epithelial or neuroendocrine cells. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic mutations and conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and Lynch syndrome can increase the risk.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically through imaging studies like CT scans, MRIs, or endoscopy (e.g., capsule endoscopy or push enteroscopy). Biopsy is used to confirm the diagnosis through histological examination of the tumor tissue.

Treatment:
Treatment involves surgery to remove the tumor if detected early. Chemotherapy (e.g., 5-fluorouracil, capecitabine, or oxaliplatin) is often used for advanced disease. Radiation therapy may be used in some cases. Targeted therapy or immunotherapy may also be considered depending on tumor type.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs like 5-fluorouracil (an antimetabolite) and oxaliplatin (a platinum-based chemotherapy drug) are commonly used. Targeted therapies like bevacizumab (an anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody) and immunotherapies such as pembrolizumab (an immune checkpoint inhibitor) may be prescribed for advanced or metastatic cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Small intestine cancer is very rare, representing less than 2% of all gastrointestinal cancers. Its incidence is estimated to be about 2-3 cases per 100,000 people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and Crohn's disease. Celiac disease and a history of radiation therapy to the abdomen also increase risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. For localized small intestine cancer, the 5-year survival rate can be as high as 80%, while for metastatic disease, the prognosis is much poorer, with a 5-year survival rate closer to 30%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include bowel obstruction, bleeding, malnutrition, and metastasis to the liver or lymph nodes. In some cases, the cancer can lead to the development of secondary tumors or complications from chemotherapy.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; swelling in the abdomen; unexplained weight loss; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; fatigue; bloating; constipation

Root Cause:
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the peritoneum, the lining of the abdomen. It is most commonly caused by asbestos exposure, which leads to the development of malignant cells that grow and invade the peritoneal lining.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to detect fluid buildup (ascites) and tumors in the abdomen. A biopsy is needed for definitive diagnosis, often performed through laparoscopy or peritoneal biopsy.

Treatment:
Treatment options include surgery (e.g., cytoreductive surgery) to remove as much of the tumor as possible, often followed by heated chemotherapy (HIPEC) to target remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy (e.g., pemetrexed and cisplatin) is used for advanced cases, and radiation therapy may also be applied.

Medications:
Common chemotherapy drugs used to treat peritoneal mesothelioma include pemetrexed (an antifolate drug) and cisplatin (a platinum-based chemotherapy agent). These are used in combination to help shrink tumors and manage the disease. In some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy may be considered.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is extremely rare, accounting for approximately 10-20% of all mesothelioma cases. The overall incidence is low, with an estimated 300-500 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos, particularly in occupations like construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. Other risk factors include genetic mutations and a history of prior radiation exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for peritoneal mesothelioma is poor, with a median survival rate of 12-24 months, depending on the stage at diagnosis. Patients who undergo cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC may have improved outcomes, but survival is still limited.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include bowel obstruction, ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen), malnutrition, and metastasis to other parts of the body, particularly the lungs. The treatment itself can also cause side effects like fatigue, nausea, and immune suppression.

Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; swelling or mass; chest pain; coughing; shortness of breath; unexplained weight loss; fever; night sweats

Root Cause:
Extragonadal germ cell tumors (EGCTs) arise from germ cells that are typically found in the gonads (ovaries or testes) but develop in areas outside of these organs, such as the mediastinum, retroperitoneum, or pineal gland. These tumors are believed to be the result of abnormal migration of germ cells during fetal development.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, or chest X-rays to locate the tumor. Blood tests to measure tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are also used. A biopsy is necessary for histological confirmation.

Treatment:
Treatment for extragonadal germ cell tumors often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. The standard chemotherapy regimen includes bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP). Surgery is used to remove the primary tumor when feasible.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents such as bleomycin (an antibiotic used as a chemotherapy agent), etoposide (a plant alkaloid), and cisplatin (a platinum-based chemotherapy drug) are used to treat extragonadal germ cell tumors. These drugs are classified as alkylating agents, antimetabolites, and plant alkaloids , respectively.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extragonadal germ cell tumors are rare, representing about 1-5% of all germ cell tumors. The incidence is lower than gonadal germ cell tumors, with approximately 2-3 cases per million people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (most common in adolescents and young adults), history of gonadal germ cell tumors, and certain genetic syndromes like Klinefelter syndrome. In rare cases, a family history of germ cell tumors or other related conditions may increase risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for extragonadal germ cell tumors depends on the tumor's location, stage at diagnosis, and response to treatment. If caught early and treated aggressively, the 5-year survival rate can be around 70-90%, but survival rates drop significantly for metastatic or advanced disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include metastasis to the lungs, liver, or other organs, recurrence after treatment, and side effects of chemotherapy such as organ toxicity (e.g., to the lungs or kidneys), fertility issues, and secondary cancers.

Plasmacytomas

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
bone pain; fatigue; unexplained weight loss; anemia; frequent infections; weakness; numbness or tingling in limbs

Root Cause:
Plasmacytomas are abnormal growths of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies. These tumors can occur in bone (solitary plasmacytoma of bone) or soft tissue (extramedullary plasmacytoma). They may develop in isolation or as part of a more widespread condition like multiple myeloma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves imaging techniques like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to detect bone lesions or soft tissue masses. Bone marrow biopsy and blood tests (such as serum protein electrophoresis for monoclonal proteins) are used to confirm the presence of abnormal plasma cells. A biopsy of the tumor is performed for histological diagnosis.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves localized radiation therapy or surgical resection, depending on the tumor's location. In some cases, chemotherapy or stem cell transplantation may be used if the plasmacytoma is part of a more systemic disease like multiple myeloma. For extramedullary plasmacytomas, radiation is often the treatment of choice.

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents like melphalan (an alkylating agent) and cyclophosphamide (another alkylating agent) may be used for advanced disease or when plasmacytomas are associated with multiple myeloma. Additionally, corticosteroids like dexamethasone can be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Plasmacytomas are rare, with solitary plasmacytomas representing only about 3% of all plasma cell neoplasms. The incidence is estimated at 0.2-1 case per 100,000 people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (more common in older adults), a family history of plasma cell disorders, and conditions like multiple myeloma. Previous radiation therapy and certain infections (like HIV) may also increase risk.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis for solitary plasmacytoma is generally favorable, especially if it is diagnosed early and treated with surgery or radiation. The 5-year survival rate for localized plasmacytomas is around 80-90%. However, if plasmacytomas progress to multiple myeloma or involve multiple sites, the prognosis worsens significantly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications can include bone fractures due to bone involvement, pain management issues, spinal cord compression if the tumor involves the spine, and recurrence of the plasmacytoma. If it transforms into multiple myeloma, the complications and prognosis worsen.

Hypercalcemia of Malignancy

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Paraneoplastic Syndromes

Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; constipation; abdominal pain; fatigue; confusion; thirst; frequent urination; muscle weakness

Root Cause:
Malignant tumors release calcium into the bloodstream, often through secretion of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) or osteolytic bone metastasis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing elevated calcium levels, alongside confirmation of underlying malignancy through imaging or biopsy.

Treatment:
Hydration, bisphosphonates (such as zoledronic acid), denosumab, corticosteroids, and calcitonin.

Medications:
Bisphosphonates (e.g., zoledronic acid) inhibit bone resorption, and denosumab , a monoclonal antibody, works by inhibiting osteoclast activity. Corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) may be used if there is an underlying hematologic malignancy. Calcitonin helps to lower calcium levels by inhibiting osteoclast function.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-20% of patients with advanced cancer.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Patients with lung, breast, or hematologic cancers, and those with extensive bone metastasis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the underlying malignancy and the ability to control calcium levels. Treatment of the underlying cancer can improve the prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe hypercalcemia can cause kidney failure, arrhythmias, coma, and, if untreated, death.

Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Paraneoplastic Syndromes

Symptoms:
hyponatremia; nausea; vomiting; confusion; seizures; lethargy; muscle cramps

Root Cause:
Tumors produce excess antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to water retention and dilutional hyponatremia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing low sodium levels and high urine osmolality despite low serum osmolality. Imaging to identify the tumor may also be necessary.

Treatment:
Fluid restriction, hypertonic saline in severe cases, and vasopressin receptor antagonists (e.g., tolvaptan). Treating the underlying cancer may improve SIADH.

Medications:
Vasopressin receptor antagonists (e.g., tolvaptan ) help correct sodium imbalances by blocking the effects of ADH.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in patients with small cell lung cancer, as well as other malignancies like head and neck cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Small cell lung cancer, brain tumors, and medications such as cyclophosphamide or vincristine.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying malignancy and successful management of fluid imbalances.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, SIADH can lead to severe hyponatremia, seizures, and coma.

Cushing Syndrome (Ectopic ACTH Production)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Paraneoplastic Syndromes

Symptoms:
weight gain; moon face; central obesity; purple striae; osteoporosis; muscle weakness; hypertension; hyperglycemia

Root Cause:
Tumors, often lung carcinoid or small cell lung cancer, secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), stimulating excess cortisol production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Elevated cortisol levels in the blood or urine, ACTH levels are often high, and imaging may identify the tumor.

Treatment:
Surgical removal of the tumor, if possible. Medications like ketoconazole or metyrapone can inhibit cortisol production, and mitotane may be used to suppress adrenal function.

Medications:
Medications like ketoconazole (a steroidogenesis inhibitor) and metyrapone (inhibits cortisol synthesis) can be used to control excess cortisol production.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, but occurs in up to 10% of patients with ectopic ACTH-producing tumors.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Small cell lung cancer, bronchial carcinoid tumors, or pancreatic tumors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies with tumor type; successful tumor removal can lead to remission, though recurrence is possible.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and infections due to prolonged cortisol excess.

Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Paraneoplastic Syndromes

Symptoms:
muscle weakness; difficulty standing up; dry mouth; blurry vision; fatigue; constipation; impaired reflexes

Root Cause:
Autoimmune attack on presynaptic calcium channels at the neuromuscular junction, often associated with small cell lung cancer.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, electromyography (EMG) showing impaired neuromuscular transmission, and detection of antibodies against voltage-gated calcium channels.

Treatment:
Treatment involves immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., corticosteroids, azathioprine), plasmapheresis, and possibly 3,4-diaminopyridine.

Medications:
Immunosuppressive agents like corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), azathioprine , and 3,4-diaminopyridine to improve neuromuscular transmission.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, typically associated with small cell lung cancer in 50-70% of cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Small cell lung cancer, other cancers like prostate or thyroid cancer.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis is dependent on the underlying malignancy and response to treatment. Symptoms may improve with cancer treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, difficulty swallowing, and persistent muscle weakness.

Neuromyelitis Optica (Anti-Aquaporin-4 Antibody Syndrome)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Paraneoplastic Syndromes

Symptoms:
vision loss; optic neuritis; nausea; vomiting; paralysis; sensory disturbances; bladder dysfunction; extreme fatigue

Root Cause:
Autoimmune response against aquaporin-4 channels on astrocytes, causing inflammation of the optic nerve and spinal cord, often associated with malignancies.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detection of anti-AQP4 antibodies in the blood, MRI showing spinal cord and optic nerve lesions, and clinical presentation.

Treatment:
High-dose corticosteroids, plasmapheresis, and rituximab (an immunosuppressive therapy).

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone ), rituximab (a monoclonal antibody), and plasmapheresis may be used to manage acute relapses.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated 2-4 cases per million people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Associated with autoimmune diseases, and may be paraneoplastic in some cases linked to cancers such as breast, lung, and ovarian.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Relapsing-remitting course in some patients; poor prognosis with significant long-term disability if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vision loss, paralysis, and in severe cases, respiratory failure due to spinal cord involvement.

Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Treatment-Related Complications

Symptoms:
numbness; tingling; pain in hands or feet; weakness; balance problems; sensitivity to touch; loss of reflexes

Root Cause:
Damage to peripheral nerves due to chemotherapy agents, especially those that interfere with microtubules, like taxanes or platinum compounds.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms, neurological exam, and sometimes electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function.

Treatment:
Discontinuation or dose adjustment of the offending chemotherapy agent, use of medications to manage symptoms (e.g., gabapentin, pregabalin), physical therapy for strength and balance, and occupational therapy.

Medications:
Gabapentin (an anticonvulsant used to treat nerve pain), Pregabalin (similar to gabapentin , used to treat neuropathic pain), Duloxetine (a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor for neuropathic pain), and Lidocaine patches (used topically for localized pain). These medications are classified as pain relievers, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
This affects up to 40-70% of patients receiving certain chemotherapy drugs, particularly those used in the treatment of breast cancer, lymphoma, and sarcomas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High cumulative dose of chemotherapy agents like paclitaxel, cisplatin, or vincristine, pre-existing neuropathy, and age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Neuropathy may improve or resolve after chemotherapy completion, but in some cases, it can be permanent or progressive.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent pain, loss of function, risk of falls, and reduced quality of life.

Radiation-Induced Cancers

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Treatment-Related Complications

Symptoms:
unexplained weight loss; pain at tumor site; lumps or masses; fatigue

Root Cause:
Genetic mutations or damage caused by radiation therapy, leading to the development of new cancers years or decades after treatment.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies, biopsy, and a thorough medical history of prior radiation therapy.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the specific type of cancer but may include surgery, chemotherapy, and further radiation therapy.

Medications:
There are no specific medications for radiation-induced cancers; treatment is based on the type of cancer and may include chemotherapy agents (e.g., Doxorubicin , Cyclophosphamide ) and targeted therapies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Radiation-induced cancers are rare, occurring in approximately 0.5-3% of patients who receive radiation therapy.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High radiation dose, younger age at the time of radiation exposure, and the area of the body treated.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the type of radiation-induced cancer and its stage at diagnosis, but generally, these cancers are treatable with conventional cancer therapies.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary cancers, long-term side effects of radiation, and reduced organ function.

Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD) after Stem Cell Transplant

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Treatment-Related Complications

Symptoms:
skin rashes; diarrhea; liver dysfunction; jaundice; dry mouth; fatigue; abdominal pain; fever

Root Cause:
The immune cells from the donor (graft) attack the recipient's tissues (host) after stem cell transplantation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, biopsy of affected tissue (skin, liver, or gastrointestinal tract), and blood tests for liver enzymes and other markers of inflammation.

Treatment:
Immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., corticosteroids), antithymocyte globulin, and other agents to suppress the immune response.

Medications:
Prednisone (a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system), Mycophenolate mofetil (an immunosuppressive drug), and Tacrolimus (a calcineurin inhibitor). These medications are classified as immunosuppressants.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Around 30-70% of allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients experience some form of GVHD.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Donor-recipient mismatching, younger age of the recipient, and prior history of GVHD.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early treatment, GVHD can often be controlled, but it can lead to chronic disability and even death in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic GVHD can affect multiple organs, including the skin, liver, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to long-term disability.

Immunotherapy-Related Adverse Events

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Treatment-Related Complications

Symptoms:
fatigue; diarrhea; rashes; pneumonitis; colitis; hepatitis; endocrinopathies; arthralgia

Root Cause:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., PD-1, PD-L1 inhibitors) inadvertently activate the immune system, leading to attacks on healthy tissues and organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical presentation, lab tests for organ function, and imaging to assess organ involvement.

Treatment:
Discontinuation of immunotherapy and corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone) to reduce immune system activity. In severe cases, additional immunosuppressive agents may be used.

Medications:
Prednisone (used to reduce inflammation and immune response), Mycophenolate mofetil (for severe cases), and Infliximab (a TNF inhibitor used to treat colitis). These are anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Immunotherapy-related adverse events occur in about 30-40% of patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prior autoimmune conditions, combination therapy with immunotherapies, and high-dose treatments.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most immune-related adverse events resolve with early intervention, but severe reactions can result in permanent organ damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Organ-specific toxicities (e.g., pneumonitis, hepatitis, colitis), autoimmune disorders, and life-threatening conditions in rare cases.