Oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of neoplasms, both benign and malignant tumors, particularly cancer.

Due to the wide variety of tumors, oncologists are generally categorized into clinical oncologists (specializing in neoplasm treatment), radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists.

Furthermore, due to the rapid advancements in oncology research in recent years, there's a growing trend towards sub-specialization. This means oncologists specializing in a particular type of cancer or a group of cancers. Oncology care teams consist of highly specialized professionals who work in a coordinated and multidisciplinary manner to address all aspects of the disease and adapt to each individual case.

Oncology encompasses knowledge of all cancer-related aspects: epidemiology, prevention, treatments... Thus, the oncologist's mission is to manage the patient from diagnosis to the end of the disease.

Extensive research is currently underway in all areas of oncology: from cell biology to the design of new, more effective and safer treatments. This research makes oncology a constantly evolving discipline.

In summary, oncology addresses:

• Cancer diagnosis.
• Cancer treatment (surgery and non-surgical therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and other modalities).
• Follow-up care for cancer patients after successful treatment.
• Palliative care for patients in the terminal phase.
• Ethical aspects related to the management of cancer patients.
• Genetic studies, both in the general population and, in some cases, in the patients' relatives (may be indicated in certain types of tumors, where a hereditary basis is known).

Oncologist: What diseases does he treat?

The three main specialties in oncology are medical oncology, surgical oncology, and radiation oncology:

• The medical oncologist is an expert in the pharmacological treatment of cancer.
• The surgical oncologist is an expert in surgical tumor removal techniques and tissue sampling for biopsy. They may have sub-specializations such as in onco-hematology or pediatric oncology.
• The radiation oncologist is a cancer specialist expert in cancer radiotherapy.

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When to consult an oncologist?

The first visit to an oncologist aims to assess the disease situation. Generally, one is referred by another specialist who suspects the presence of a tumor: potential symptoms of a neoplasm often indicate the presence of other disorders, so people may consult other doctors rather than an oncologist. When cancer treatment is necessary, the first visit is followed by a series of check-ups during treatment, also called reassessment visits, as they serve to monitor the treatment outcome and correct it if necessary. Follow-up visits follow the defeat of the disease: the oncologist prescribes a series of follow-up visits. The frequency of follow-up visits will depend on the type and stage of the tumor.

When is a first visit to an oncologist necessary? A tumor does not always cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. Therefore, regular check-ups with a general practitioner and specialists are strongly recommended.

Preparing for your consultation

It is advisable to bring previous medical records for the specialist to review. It is recommended that the cancer patient be accompanied for support in case of anxiety, stress, or discouragement, and to better follow the information provided by the doctor.

The oncology examination does not require any special preparation, but it is possible that the person undergoing it will need to undress, so it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing. If the problem affects the skin, it is recommended not to wear makeup, tanning cream, or colored contact lenses (which hide iris moles). Women are advised to present themselves for the examination without menstruation, which prevents the examination of nevi and spots in the genital area. It is recommended to undergo the check-up at least 3 days after the end of the menstrual flow and 7 days before the beginning of the next flow.

How does the consultation take place?

The oncology examination begins with the anamnesis, a series of questions useful for diagnosis. The oncologist inquires about symptoms and their date of onset, any pre-existing or current illnesses, family history of certain types of cancer (affected family members), and the presence of other risk factors.

They may then proceed to a physical examination, during which they examine the patient for any possible pathology. It usually begins with auscultation. They then proceed to examine the lymph nodes, palpating the neck, armpits, abdomen, and groin area. Swelling of the lymph glands may indicate the presence of tumors or inflammation. Other areas often examined during an oncology examination are:

• The lungs. In case of respiratory problems, the doctor performs an objective examination of the lungs.
• The skin. The doctor may observe the skin for abnormalities that could indicate the presence of neoplasms.
• In case of suspected tumor in the abdomen, the doctor observes the area and performs palpation to check for the absence of pain and the presence of any abnormalities to the touch.
• The rectum. If the potential problem is located in the intestine, the doctor may deem it useful to perform a rectal examination. The rectal examination is completely painless; in case of discomfort, it is good to mention it to the doctor who will put the person at ease;
• The breast. In case of suspected breast cancer, the doctor performs a breast examination, looking for asymmetries, lesions, changes in shape or consistency, and palpates to detect any swelling or masses. They will also check for unjustified milk production by pressing the nipples.
• A pelvic examination may be performed in women. The examination can be done by simple observation and palpation or with the use of a speculum.
• In the case of potential testicular, prostatic, or bladder pathology, the specialist will perform a urological examination.

The diagnosis of a tumor can only be considered definitive after specific diagnostic tests and the resulting investigations. These are indeed necessary to reliably discriminate the type of neoplasm and thus prescribe the correct treatment.