An overview of cancer: Molecular, genetic, and immunologic concerns for anesthesia

Among all of the diseases affecting humans, cancer is relatively unique in that the diseased cancer cells are syngeneic with all of the other host cells and, therefore, have the same genetic and biologic configuration as the normal host cells. Cancer results from a somatic mutation that can be induced by multiple etiologic agents, including chemicals, physical agents, microbes, viruses, and chronic inflammation. The most important evaluation in the patient with cancer is appropriate staging of the extent of disease and appropriate attention to correcting physiologic defects that may be recognized. This article is an overview of molecular, genetic, and immunologic concerns for anesthesia in cancer.