Cancer-Related Dictionary

A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the body for examination under a microscope to detect and diagnose diseases, specifically cancer. This diagnostic tool helps doctors understand the extent of the disease and determine the best treatment plan.

A "Biopsy Punch" is a medical device commonly used in dermatological procedures to obtain tissue samples for biopsy. It is typically a cylindrical, knife-like instrument, operated manually or spring-loaded, that is pressed into the skin to cut a small, round piece of tissue for microscopic examination. Designed with various sizes, it ensures a less invasive procedure with less discomfort for patients while providing accurate and rapid sampling.

Bone marrow is soft, spongy tissue found within the central cavities of bones. It is responsible for producing different types of blood cells, including red blood cells that carry oxygen, white blood cells that fight infections, and platelets that help with blood clotting. Essentially, the bone marrow serves as a vital part of the body's immune system and overall health.

A bone marrow biopsy is a medical procedure where a small sample of bone marrow, usually from the hip bone, is extracted for testing. It's often used to diagnose a variety of diseases, such as cancer, anemia, and infections. This procedure is generally done under a local anaesthetic to minimize discomfort.

Brachytherapy is a form of cancer treatment where radioactive seeds or pellets are directly inserted into the cancerous tissue, enabling a high radiation dose while reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. It's often used for prostate, cervical, and breast cancers.

Breast reconstruction is a type of surgery performed on women who have had all or part of a breast removed. The procedure restores the breast to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry and size following mastectomy or lumpectomy. It's often carried out by a plastic surgeon using either implants or tissue from another area of the body. It plays a significant role in improving the quality of life and self-esteem of women who have undergone breast cancer treatment.

Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the patient's lungs and airways. It involves passing a thin viewing instrument called a bronchoscope through the patient's nose or mouth, down the throat, into the trachea, and into the bronchi. This procedure helps to diagnose lung diseases, tumors, infections, or blockages. It enables the collection of tissue or mucus samples for further testing.