Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

Which cancers are most likely to cause pericardial effusions?

1. Liver cancer and prostate cancer

2. Ovarian cancer and testicular cancer

3. Lung cancer and breast cancer

4. Pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer

The correct answer is: Lung cancer and breast cancer

Pericardial effusions, which are accumulations of fluid in the pericardial cavity, are often associated with malignancies due to a variety of factors such as direct invasion of the pericardium, obstruction of lymphatic drainage, and effects of therapy. Lung cancer and breast cancer are particularly notable for their propensity to cause pericardial effusions. Lung cancer can lead to effusion through direct tumor invasion into neighboring structures, including the pericardium, or via lymphatic obstruction and inflammatory processes. Additionally, certain lung cancer treatments may also contribute to fluid accumulation. Breast cancer similarly has a significant risk for pericardial effusions, especially in advanced stages. It can cause effusions through local metastasis to the pericardium or via systemic effects of the disease. Both cancers are more frequently associated with pericardial effusions compared to other malignancies listed in the choices, making this option the most valid in the context of the question. In contrast, while liver cancer and prostate cancer, ovarian cancer and testicular cancer, as well as pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer, can also be involved in effusions, they are less commonly associated with direct involvement of the pericardium compared