Free NCLEX 14-day Free Trial

Cancer is a condition characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body, often stemming from genetic changes that disrupt normal cell function, particularly in development and division. Typically, cells undergo a regulated process of division to replace old or damaged cells. However, in cancer, these cells proliferate uncontrollably, forming tumors that can be:

• Cancerous (malignant)
• Non-cancerous (benign)

Malignant tumors can invade nearby tissues and metastasize to other parts of the body, while benign tumors typically remain localized and do not spread. Cancer can affect various organs and tissues, with over a hundred types identified, generally named after the affected area or the type of cell involved.

Let us look at the types of cancers

1. Carcinoma

Carcinomas are the most common type of cancer. These are formed by epithelial cells covering a body's inside and outside surfaces. Adenocarcinoma is a cancer in epithelial cells that produce fluids and mucus. Basal cell carcinoma is a cancer that forms in the lower or basal layer of the epidermis, a person's outer layer of skin.

Squamous cell carcinoma is cancer that forms in the squamous cells, which are epithelial cells that lie beneath the skin's outer surface. Transitional cell carcinoma is a cancer that forms in a type of epithelial tissue called transitional epithelium or urothelium. This tissue is found in the linings of the bladder, part of the kidneys, ureters, and a few other organs.

2. Sarcomas

Sarcomas are malignancies originating in either bones or soft tissues, with osteosarcoma being the predominant type affecting bone tissue.

3. Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that develops from either T or B cells, both lymphocytes. It leads to the accumulation of abnormal lymphocytes in lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels.

4. Leukemia

Leukemias are cancers originating in the blood-forming tissue found in bone marrow. They result in the proliferation of abnormal white blood cells within the bloodstream and bone marrow, displacing healthy blood cells.

5. Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a malignancy from plasma cells, a subset of immune cells. These aberrant plasma cells, known as myeloma cells, accumulate in the bone marrow and generate tumors in bones throughout the body.

6. Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of cancer originating from cells that develop into melanocytes, specialized cells responsible for producing melanin. While most melanomas arise on the skin, they can also occur in other pigmented tissues, including the eye.

Naxlex Cancer NCLEX Question Test Bank

Naxlex NCLEX provides a comprehensive collection of cancer NCLEX questions, covering various cancer types, their assessment, treatment strategies, symptom control, and coordination with other healthcare providers.

Let us look at the questions you will find on our cancer test bank or practice questions

Question: 1

Which type of cancer originates from the cells that produce melanin?

A) Sarcoma

B) Leukemia

C) Melanoma

D) Lymphoma

Answer: C) Melanoma

Explanation: Melanoma is a type of cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.

Question: 2

Which symptom is commonly associated with leukemia?

A) Difficulty swallowing

B) Unexplained weight gain

C) Easy bruising and bleeding

D) Persistent cough

Answer: C) Easy bruising and bleeding

Explanation: Leukemia often leads to low levels of normal blood cells, particularly platelets, necessary for blood clotting. This can cause bruising and bleeding.

Question: 3

What is the most common site for the formation of osteosarcoma?

A) Lungs

B) Brain

C) Bones

D) Liver

Answer: C) Bones

Explanation: Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer, typically forming in the long bones of the arms and legs.

Read More

Question: 4

Which type of cancer can form tumors in the lymph nodes?

A) Sarcoma

B) Leukemia

C) Lymphoma

D) Melanoma

Answer: C) Lymphoma

Explanation: Lymphomas are lymphatic system cancers, including lymph nodes. They often result in the formation of tumors within lymph nodes.

Question: 5

What is a characteristic feature of multiple myeloma?

A) Formation of tumors in the lungs

B) Accumulation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow

C) Excessive production of red blood cells

D) Presence of abnormal skin pigmentation

Answer: B) Accumulation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow

Explanation: Multiple myeloma is characterized by the proliferation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to bone pain, weakened bones, and other symptoms.