Breast Cancer Treatment & Survivorship Support Flashcards
7 cards from real CBC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Breast Cancer Treatment & Survivorship Support flashcards as text
Which of the following is a common long-term side effect of axillary lymph node dissection that breast counselors must educate patients about?
Answer: Lymphedema
Lymphedema, a chronic swelling caused by damage to the lymphatic system, is a significant long-term risk following axillary lymph node dissection.
Tamoxifen as endocrine therapy is most commonly prescribed for which patient population?
Answer: ER-positive premenopausal women
Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used for ER-positive breast cancer particularly in premenopausal women, blocking estrogen's effect on cancer cells.
Which class of endocrine therapy is preferred for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer?
Answer: Aromatase inhibitors
Aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane) are preferred for postmenopausal women because they block peripheral estrogen synthesis, the primary estrogen source after menopause.
Which components should be included in a comprehensive survivorship care plan (SCP)?
Answer: Summary of treatment received, follow-up schedule, and long-term side effect information
A comprehensive survivorship care plan includes a treatment summary, recommended follow-up schedule, potential late effects, and guidance on healthy lifestyle behaviors.
Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment ('chemo brain') most commonly affects which cognitive domains?
Answer: Attention, concentration, and short-term memory
Chemo brain primarily affects attention, concentration, and short-term memory, making it difficult for survivors to focus or recall recent information.
Which recommendation is most appropriate for breast cancer survivors at risk for bone loss during aromatase inhibitor therapy?
Answer: Take calcium and vitamin D supplements and engage in weight-bearing exercise
Aromatase inhibitors can reduce bone density; calcium and vitamin D supplementation combined with weight-bearing exercise are recommended to mitigate this risk.
How frequently are mammograms typically recommended for breast cancer survivors who have completed treatment?
Answer: Annually (every year)
Annual mammograms are generally recommended for breast cancer survivors to monitor for recurrence or new primary breast cancers.