Cancer Diagnosis, Imaging Technologies and Treatment
Read pages 52-53 of your textbook and answer the following questions.
Cancer diagnosis often involves various imaging technologies that help doctors visualize the
inside of the body to detect cancerous growths. Techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and
PET scans are commonly used. Each method has its own strengths and is chosen based on the
type of cancer suspected. Understanding these tools is crucial for comprehending how cancer is
diagnosed and monitored.
Fill in the Blank: Fill in the blank with the correct words.
1. An __ is a type of imaging that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed
images of the organs and tissues.
2. __ scans are often used to detect abnormalities in the brain and other parts of the body.
3. A __ scan combines X-ray images taken from different angles to create cross-sectional
images of the bones and soft tissues.
4. __ rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation used to create images of the inside of the
body.
5. The __ scan uses a radioactive tracer to look for disease in the body.
6. __ is a treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells.
7. The removal of a tumor through __ is a common treatment for many types of cancer.
8. __ therapy uses high-energy particles to destroy cancer cells.
9. __ therapy strengthens the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
10.__ therapy targets specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells.
Multiple Choice Questions: Choose the correct answer from the choices for each question.
1. Which imaging technique is most suitable for examining soft tissue contrast?
A) X-ray
B) MRI
C) Ultrasound
D) CT scan
2. What is the primary use of X-rays in cancer diagnosis?
A) To detect soft tissue anomalies
B) To visualize dense structures like bones
C) To measure radioactive isotopes
D) To create 3D images of the body
3. Which imaging technique is known for its ability to quickly scan large areas of the body?
o A) Ultrasound
o B) MRI
o C) CT scan
o D) X-ray
4. Radiation therapy is most effective on:
o a) Fast-growing tumors
o b) Slow-growing tumors
o c) All types of cancers
o d) Only skin cancer
5. Targeted therapy focuses on:
o a) Destroying all cells in the body
o b) Targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth
o c) Boosting the immune system
o d) Removing tumors surgically
Short Answers: Answer the following questions in complete sentences:
1. Explain why a doctor might choose a CT scan over an MRI for certain types of cancer
diagnosis.
2. Describe how X-rays are used in the process of diagnosing cancer.
3. Discuss the role of imaging technologies in monitoring the progress of cancer treatment.
4. Explain why a combination of different cancer treatments might be used for a patient.
5. Describe the potential side effects of chemotherapy and how they affect a patient's daily
life.
6. Discuss how advancements in cancer treatment have improved patient outcomes over the
last decade.
Answer Key:
Fill in the Blank:
1. MRI
2. CT
3. CT
4. X-ray
5. PET
6. Chemotherapy
7. Surgery
8. Radiation
9. Immunotherapy
10.Targeted
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. B) MRI
2. B) To visualize dense structures like bones
3. C) CT scan
4. A) Fast-growing tumors
5. B) Targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth
Open Ended Questions:
1. A doctor might choose a CT scan over an MRI when a quick overview of the body's
internal structures is needed, particularly if the focus is on bones or complex fractures. CT
scans are faster and can be more effective in emergency situations.
2. X-rays are used in cancer diagnosis to identify abnormalities in dense tissues, such as
bones. They can reveal the presence of tumors or bone metastasis.
3. Imaging technologies are essential in monitoring cancer treatment as they allow doctors to
track changes in tumor size and shape, assess the effectiveness of treatment, and detect
any spread of the disease.
4. A combination of different cancer treatments might be used for a patient to maximize
effectiveness. For instance, surgery can remove the bulk of a tumor, while chemotherapy
or radiation can target remaining cancer cells. This approach can increase the chances of
successfully eliminating cancer.
5. Chemotherapy can have several side effects, including nausea, hair loss, and fatigue.
These side effects can significantly impact a patient's daily life by reducing their energy
levels and causing physical discomfort, which may require adjustments to their daily
routines and activities.
6. Advancements in cancer treatment over the last decade, such as the development of
targeted therapies and immunotherapy, have greatly improved patient outcomes. These
treatments can be more effective and have fewer side effects than traditional methods,
leading to higher survival rates and better quality of life for patients.
