Precancerous Condition: Is It Dangerous? How To Get It Treated?
Home Abnormal cell division or mitosis leads to the formation of harmful lumps of tissue called tumours or neoplasms. There are two types of tumours or neoplasms; benign and malignant. Malignant tumours are fatal because they divide abnormally, spread and invade other parts of the human body, eventually leading to the person’s death. Tumours can also be precancerous. How dangerous is it, and how is it treated?Read this article for more about this condition. “>”>What is a precancerous condition? A precancerous condition is a condition where a group of abnormal cells is present in the human body and can turn into malignant tumours in the future. Precancerous cells may resemble cancer cells but do not have cancer properties. However, if left untreated, it can develop into invasive cancer cells. It can take years, even decades, for precancerous cells to become a dangerous malignant tumour. Also read: Benign and malignant tumours: Why is it essential to understand the distinction? “>”>What causes precancerous cells in people? UV radiation: Constant prolonged exposure to UV rays, including UVA, UVB, and UVC, is harmful to the human body. Tobacco smoke: Tobacco products like beedis, cigarettes, and pipes are notorious carcinogens. Carcinogenic chemicals: People are constantly exposed to various chemicals in the environment. Additionally, they could be carcinogenic, such as asbestos, benzene, etc. Excessive inflammation: People with medical conditions such as chronic inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn’s disease, are at risk of developing cancer in the intestine. HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known for causing abnormal cell division and precancerous conditions. “>”>What are the different types of precancerous conditions? Also known as dysplasias, which refers to abnormal cells found in the tissue (which can be precancerous), precancerous conditions are different, and they all come with their respective risks. Dysplasias are classified as mild, moderate, or severe according to how closely they resemble normal human body cells. Types of precancerous conditions are classified as the following; Dysplastic moles (skin): Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known for causing abnormal cell division and precancerous conditions. Cervical dysplasia: Abnormal changes in the cervix are referred to as cervical dysplasia, and HPV infection is associated with it. Cervical dysplasia: People who are suffering from MEN syndrome (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia) might develop precancerous tissues in their endocrine glands like parathyroid, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, and pituitary glands. Esophagus dysplasia: When stomach acids cause damage in the esophagus, it can lead to the development of precancerous cells. Colon polyps: When stomach acids cause damage in the esophagus, it can lead to the development of precancerous cells. Smouldering multiple myeloma (SMM): It is a condition where an abnormal protein called monoclonal protein shows up in the blood. SMM can develop into multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. Ductal carcinoma in situ or DCIS: It is a non-invasive breast cancer that can turn into a fatal condition. It is considered an early form of breast cancer and should be surgically removed from the human body. Also read: A comprehensive guide to breast cancer “>”>What are the various treatment methods for precancerous cells? Treatment depends on various factors such as; The type of precancerous cells Location of the precancerous cells Patient’s age Presence of co-morbidities Usually, medical experts suggest further investigation to confirm the cancerous nature of these abnormal cells. Patients often opt for treatment to prevent the possibility of cancer.The most viable treatment option is surgery. However, medical experts also recommend other treatment options, such as ablative therapy (using high or low temperatures to destroy the abnormal cells). The best way forward is to converse with a suitable medical expert about how to take the treatment forward. “>How are the precancerous cells diagnosed?”> Abnormal cells present on the skin are visible to the naked eye. Medical experts observe the pattern and colour of skin dysplasia. Blood test helps in identifying abnormal cells in the blood. Mammography, sonography and ultrasound are other common diagnostic methods. Women are advised to undergo a pap smear test to check for the presence of cervical cancer. Also read: The importance of early detection in cancer survival: signs and symptoms “>In conclusion People should not pass an opportunity to get themselves diagnosed with cancer or any health-related issue. The peculiarity of cancer as a disease is that it shows up without warning. Most people don’t exhibit any symptoms until the disease is far along. People also have a tendency to disregard symptoms that are readily apparent to them. It is safer to have screenings and tests done annually or every six months “>”>Are you looking for a suitable cancer diagnosis package? CancerMitr offers an array of cancer diagnosis packages. If you feel discomfort in any part of your body, it is better to get tested. CancerMitr is there as a friend to guide you and provide all the help you need throughout your journey from discovery to recovery. Check out our website for more information on our various packages. Click here