Cancer-Related Dictionary

Pancreatic cancer is a type of malignancy that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ residing behind the lower stomach. This organ releases enzymes aiding digestion and hormones managing blood sugar. This form of cancer often shows hardly any early symptoms, spreads swiftly and is mostly detected in advanced stages, making it one of the deadliest types of cancer.

Peritoneal carcinomatosis is a condition where cancer cells spread to the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity. This often occurs in advanced stages of abdominal cancers such as ovarian, gastric, or colorectal cancer, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss.

Pleomorphic adenoma is a benign tumor that typically occurs in the salivary glands, most commonly in the parotid gland. It is characterized by a mix of different cell types and structures, hence the name 'pleomorphic.' While generally non-cancerous, it can become malignant if not treated.

Prostate cancer is a medical condition characterized by abnormal growth of cells in the prostate gland, a tiny walnut-shaped organ present in males, responsible for semen production. It's one of the most prevalent types of cancer among men and can vary from slow-growing to aggressive, potentially metastasizing to other body parts if left untreated. Risk factors include age, family history, race, and certain dietary habits.

Pulmonary metastases refer to cancer cells that have spread from a primary tumor located in another part of the body to the lungs. This process is known as metastasis, and it indicates that the cancer is at an advanced stage.