Cancer-Related Dictionary

Squamous metaplasia is a process where one type of mature cell is replaced by another type of mature cell. This usually occurs as an adaptation to chronic irritation or inflammation, where glandular cells transform into squamous cells, which are more resistant to such conditions.

"Staging" in the healthcare context, refers to the process of determining the size and spread of a specific disease or cancer within the patient's body. It facilitates the development of an appropriate treatment plan, and helps predict patient prognosis. The stage is often denoted by Roman numerals I, II, III, or IV.

A surgical oncologist is a specialist in the field of oncology, responsible for the surgical removal of tumors and cancerous tissues. They work as part of a multidisciplinary team, providing surgical interventions, performing biopsies, and contributing to treatment planning for cancer patients. Their expertise lies in cancer surgery and understanding tumor biology.