All the following cancers have infective etiology EXCEPT

Appeared in: JIPMER Nursing Officer-2017

Explanation

Squamous carcinoma of the lung is the correct exception as its primary cause is non-infectious.
The main etiological factor for lung cancer is exposure to chemical carcinogens, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in tobacco smoke.
While some research explores viral links, the overwhelming cause is environmental and lifestyle-related, not due to a specific infectious agent.

Option A: Squamous carcinoma of the penis has a well-established infective etiology.
Option C: Burkitt's lymphoma is a classic example of a cancer caused by a virus.
Option D: Kaposi's sarcoma is defined by its viral cause.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Infective Etiology of Cancers as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the infective etiology of cancers is crucial for prevention strategies. For example, the HPV vaccine can significantly reduce the incidence of penile, cervical, and other related cancers.
Nurses play a key role in patient education regarding smoking cessation to prevent lung cancer and practicing safe sex to prevent transmission of oncogenic viruses like HPV.
Immunocompromised patients (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS or post-transplant) are at a much higher risk for developing virus-associated cancers like Kaposi's sarcoma and Burkitt's lymphoma, requiring vigilant monitoring.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'infective etiology' or cancers caused by infections.
Note the keyword 'EXCEPT'. This means you are looking for the option that does NOT fit the rule. Three options will be cancers caused by an infection, and one will not.
Evaluate each option one by one:
Does penile cancer have an infectious cause? Yes, HPV.
Does lung cancer have an infectious cause? No, its primary cause is smoking.
Does Burkitt's lymphoma have an infectious cause? Yes, EBV.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 PATHOLOGY QUICK REVIEWBased on Harsh Mohan Textbook of PATHOLOGY pp. 70-72, 221-223

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 966-968

Practise the full JIPMER Nursing Officer-2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.