Cancer-Related Dictionary

Laryngeal cancer is a type of throat cancer that specifically impacts the voice box, or larynx. It typically forms in squamous cells lining the larynx, affecting breathing, swallowing and voice quality. Risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol, and certain strains of HPV. Treatment often involves surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. As an aggressive disease, early detection significantly improves prognosis.

Leukemia is a group of blood cancer types that primarily affect the bone marrow and white blood cells. It occurs when the body's bone marrow produces an excessive number of abnormal white blood cells, inhibiting the production of red blood cells and platelets, important for proper bodily function. This interferes with the body's ability to fight infections, clot blood, and transport oxygen.

Liposarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in the fat cells. It often affects the limbs or the abdomen but can manifest in other parts of the body. Its growth may be slow and initially unnoticed, but it can eventually interfere with organ function or movement. Treatment options typically involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that originates from the lobules, which are the glands that produce milk in the breast. It's the second most common type of breast cancer, often growing more slowly and less likely to form a lump than the more common type, ductal carcinoma. Largely affecting postmenopausal women, it can also spread to other parts of the body.

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a condition that indicates the presence of abnormal cells in the lobules of the breast. Although not a cancer itself, LCIS is considered a marker for increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future. It's often detected during a biopsy for another breast condition or during a mammogram.

A low-grade glioma is a type of brain tumor that originates from glial cells, which support nerve cells. These tumors are considered slow-growing and less aggressive compared to high-grade gliomas, but they can still cause significant health issues depending on their size and location in the brain.

Lung cancer is a type of malignant disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs, specifically in the tissues or air passages. It can be primarily caused by smoking, but non-smokers can get it too due to reasons like exposure to radon gas or secondhand smoke. It's often fatal due to late-stage diagnosis, making early detection crucial.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, an essential component of the body's immune system. It specifically develops in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infections. There are two main types - Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms typically include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Lymphomatoid papulosis is a rare skin disorder characterized by recurring, self-healing skin lesions that resemble lymphoma but are typically benign. These lesions can appear as red-brown bumps or nodules on the skin and may last for weeks or months before resolving on their own.