Cancer-Related Dictionary

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the nasopharynx, the area at the upper part of the throat behind the nose and near the base of the skull. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the squamous cells lining the nasopharynx. This type of cancer is rare in most parts of the world but is more common in certain regions, particularly in Southeast Asia.

Neoadjuvant therapy is a pre-surgical treatment approach mainly used to shrink cancerous tumors before the main treatment. It may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy and is typically employed to make surgeries less invasive and more successful. Its effectiveness is measured with the help of pathological complete response (pCR).

Neoplasm is a medical term referring to an abnormal growth of tissue which can be benign (not cancerous), malignant (cancerous), or precancerous. It arises due to unprecedented and uncontrolled cell division. The nature of the neoplasm can be determined by biopsy or other diagnostic techniques.

Neuro-oncology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of tumors affecting the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. Practitioners in neuro-oncology, known as neuro-oncologists, are medical professionals who specialize in understanding and managing tumors of the nervous system. This field involves collaboration between neurologists, neurosurgeons, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for individuals with brain and spinal cord tumors. The goal of neuro-oncology is to improve the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of these tumors, enhance diagnostic methods, and develop effective treatment strategies to improve outcomes for patients with neuro-oncological conditions.

Neuroblastoma is a rare form of pediatric cancer that originates in the adrenal glands and develops from immature nerve cells found in several areas of the body, including the adrenal glands, chest, abdomen, or spine. It predominantly affects children under the age of five and accounts for a disproportionate number of infant cancer deaths.

A neutrophil is a type of white blood cell, which is the most abundant in the human body. They are essential components of the immune system, acting as the body's first line of defense against infections by engulfing and destroying harmful bacteria and fungi. Neutrophils play a vital role in maintaining overall health and fighting diseases.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) refers to a group of various malignant cancers that develop in the lymph system, which is part of the body's immune system. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, NHL types are identified by various unique genetic marker abnormalities. These cancers can originate anywhere in the body and spread to any tissue or organ. It exhibits diverse symptoms and can proceed at varying rates, depending on the type.

Non-invasive cancer, also known as in situ cancer, is a type of cancer that has not spread beyond the layer of cells where it initially developed. It remains confined to the place of origin and has not invaded neighboring tissues or metastasized to other parts of the body.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 85% of all cases. It typically grows and spreads more slowly than small cell lung cancer. There are three main types which include; squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma. NSCLC usually begins in cells lining the lungs and can often be successfully treated if caught early.