Cancer-Related Dictionary

Capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure involving a patient swallowing a small, pill-sized camera. The camera travels through the gastrointestinal tract, capturing images that help detect abnormalities such as polyps, inflammatory disease, or ulcers. It's typically used when traditional endoscopy is inconclusive or impractical.

A clinical trial is a scientific research process involving volunteers that tests the efficacy and safety of new medical treatments, drugs, and prevention strategies. It's a part of biomedical research designed to add to the medical knowledge base. The trials are usually carried out in successive phases, each with different objectives and testing different variant of the treatment.

A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that enables a doctor, usually a gastroenterologist, to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). It involves inserting a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) into the rectum. This tube has a small video camera on the end, which sends images to a display monitor allowing for the detection of abnormalities or early signs of cancer.

A colostomy is a surgical procedure where a portion of the large intestine, or colon, is brought through the abdominal wall to create a stoma. It's done in response to various diseases or injuries to bypass a damaged part of the colon. The stoma serves as an alternative exit point for body waste, which is collected in an external pouch.

A core needle biopsy is a medical procedure where a needle is used to extract a small sample of tissue from an organ or mass in the body. The sample is examined under a microscope to diagnose diseases, like cancer. It is generally less invasive and causes less scarring than a surgical biopsy.

Cryotherapy is a therapeutic technique involving the application of extreme cold to treat various medical conditions such as skin diseases, sports injuries, or to promote overall wellness. It is also utilized in surgical procedures to destroy abnormal tissues. Regular sessions of cryotherapy are believed to boost immunity and metabolism, improve skin health and reduce inflammation.

Cystoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the lining of the bladder and the tube that carries urine (urethra). It utilizes a hollow tube equipped with a lens (cystoscope), enabling the doctor to diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions affecting the urinary system. The procedure is typically conducted in a hospital or specialized clinic.

Cytology is a branch of biology that deals with the study of cells - their structures, functions, and behavior. It is crucial in understanding diseases at a cellular level, forming the foundation for medical practices such as cancer detection through the study of cell samples.