Cancer Keys
Ovarian cancer and persistent bloating
19th March 2020 Potential pitfall: Persistent bloating is a common presenting symptom of ovarian cancer. Therefore, a potential missed diagnostic opportunity can occur if this is not investigated. Helpful hint: NICE NG12 guidelines recommends carrying out tests in...
Oesophageal cancer and dysphagia
10th March 2021 Potential pitfall: Dysphagia is the most common presenting symptom of oesophageal cancer. It should be considered alongside a number of other symptoms when contemplating an upper gastrointestinal cancer referral. Helpful hint: NICE NG12 guidelines...
4 Tips to Manage Barrett’s Oesophagus
4th March 2021 Barrett's oesophagus is associated with an increased risk of oesophageal cancer. When supporting a patient with Barrett’s oesophagus, are you clear on how to manage the condition? 4 tips to manage Barrett’s oesophagus in primary care include: Treatment,...
Brain tumours and headaches
24th February 2021 Whilst many people may associate brain tumours with headaches, often affected patients do not present with a headache until a later stage, if at all. Potential pitfall: Only up to 16% of brain tumour patients present to their GP with an isolated...
Assessing peripheral neuropathy
18th February 2021 It is important for primary care practitioners to explore and assess peripheral neuropathy carefully by evaluating the level of impact on the patient, both physically and emotionally. Many individuals receiving chemotherapy are nervous about...
Ovarian cancer and new-onset irritable bowel syndrome
12th February 2021 Potential pitfall: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder and can mimic the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Helpful hint: NICE NG12 guidelines recommend carrying out appropriate tests for ovarian cancer in any woman of 50 or over who has...
COVID-19 and neutropenic sepsis
4th December 2020 Neutropenic sepsis is a potentially fatal complication of anticancer treatment (particularly chemotherapy). Helpful hint: NICE have produced a COVID-19 rapid guideline on the delivery of systemic anticancer treatments. If patients present with...
Can you identify the 3 key time points when you could discuss resuscitation?
19th November 2020 Did you miss our free webinar on Lung Cancer vs COVID-19? Watch it here. Beginning a conversation on the topic of resuscitation with your patient and their families can be difficult. Often, resuscitation is best discussed in the context of a wider...
The seasonal flu vaccine and cancer treatment
6th November 2020 People living with cancer or undergoing cancer treatment are often immunosuppressed and at higher risk of catching the flu. After cancer treatment, a patient’s resistance to infection might be low for some months or years. It is recommended that a...