Cancer-Related Dictionary

Gamma knife surgery is a type of non-invasive procedure used in neurosurgery. Utilizing targeted radiation beams, it accurately treats small to medium-sized lesions or abnormalities in the brain without any physical incision, hence minimizing collateral damage to the surrounding healthy tissues. It’s commonly used to treat brain tumors, epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, and Parkinson's disease.

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a disease characterized by abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the stomach lining, forming a mass or tumor. Its symptoms include indigestion, unintended weight loss, stomach pain, bloating, and nausea. Risk factors include Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, certain dietary factors, and genetic conditions.

Gene therapy is a medical procedure that utilizes genes to prevent or treat diseases. It involves introducing, altering, or suppressing genetic material within a person's cells to mitigate illness. The technique can target somatic (body) cells or germline (egg or sperm) cells, but currently, only therapies targeting somatic cells are considered for treatment, as changes are non-heritable.

Genetic testing is a type of medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins. These changes can confirm or rule out a suspected genetic condition or help determine a person's chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder. This advanced science aids in the detection and prevention of multiple health conditions, making it a key component in personalized medicine.

Glioblastoma is a malignant, aggressive type of brain cancer that arises from star-shaped cells (astrocytes) forming the supportive tissue of the brain. Known for its fast growth and spread, it is the most lethal of brain cancers. Symptoms usually include headaches, seizures, and neurological deficits. Despite available treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, prognosis remains poor.

"Glioma" is a type of tumor that occurs in the brain and spinal cord. It begins in the glial cells, which provide support and protection for neurons in the brain. Gliomas can set in across different forms and severity, ranging from benign to highly malignant. Symptoms typically vary and depend on the tumor's location and size.

Grading in healthcare often refers to a system used to categorize the severity or progression of diseases, including cancer. It helps clinicians in determining the aggressiveness of the disease, its prognosis, and the most appropriate treatment approach. In broader terms, grading can also imply evaluating or assessing something in terms of quality, standard or performance.

A granulocyte is a type of white blood cell characterized by the presence of granules in its cytoplasm. There are three types: neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. Granulocytes play a crucial role in the body's immune system, primarily dealing with invading bacteria and infections.###

"HER2 positive" refers to a type of breast cancer that tests positive for a protein called Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 (HER2). This protein promotes the growth of cancer cells, and its presence indicates a more aggressive form of the disease. Treatment generally includes targeted therapies, which specifically affect HER2 cells.

A hematologist is a medical doctor specialized in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to the blood, including conditions affecting blood cells, bone marrow, blood vessels, and the lymphatic system. Their work can involve managing patients with blood disorders or illnesses such as anemia, clotting problems, and blood cancers.

"High-grade" refers to a high level of quality or superiority in comparison to others. It signifies excellence, top-notch, premium or first-class. Used in various contexts such as medical to indicate severe or advanced stage of cancer, academic to imply excellent scores, or mining for rich mineral content.

"Hyperplasia" refers to an increased growth rate in an organism's cells leading to a rapid augmentation in the size of an organ or tissue. It's a common response to stimuli and not necessarily associated with cancer, but some forms could elevate cancer risk.

Immuno-oncology is a subfield of medical research that explores the body's immune system's potential to fight cancer. It investigates how cancer manipulates the immune system and ways to harness the immune response to destroy cancer cells. Its therapies have revolutionized cancer treatment.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) is an aggressive and uncommon type of breast cancer characterized by extensive inflammation and redness in the breast. It progresses rapidly, often making the breast swollen, tender, and appearing infected. IBC accounts for 1-5% of all breast cancer cases, demanding early diagnosis and prompt treatment to optimize patient outcomes.

"Informed consent" is a key principle in healthcare ethics that refers to the patient’s right to make decisions about their treatment. It occurs when a healthcare provider educates the patient about the benefits, risks and alternatives of a proposed procedure or treatment. The patient must comprehend the information, and voluntarily give consent, ensuring their full understanding and agreement to the procedure.

Intraductal papilloma is a small, benign tumor that forms in the milk ducts of the breast, close to the nipple. It might cause nipple discharge and discomfort, but it's not cancerous. However, it can slightly increase the risk of developing breast cancer in the future.

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a type of breast cancer that starts in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to other parts of the body. It's the second most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 10% of all cases. Unlike other types, ILC tends to occur in both breasts simultaneously.

JAK2 mutation refers to a change in the JAK2 gene often linked with certain types of blood disorders. This gene is responsible for making a protein that aids in promoting growth and division of cells. However, the mutation can lead the cells to multiply uncontrollably, sometimes resulting in conditions like polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytosis or primary myelofibrosis.

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer that primarily affects children under six years of age. It is characterized by the overproduction of immature white blood cells (myelomonocytes) in the bone marrow, impairing the production of essential blood cells and leading to severe complications such as anemia, infection, bleeding, and organ dysfunction.

Kidney cancer is a type of malignancy that originates in the kidneys, specifically in the small tubes within them. Variations include renal cell carcinoma and transitional cell carcinoma. It is often discovered in the early stages when there are few, if any, symptoms. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure. Treatment may involve surgery, radiotherapy, or targeted therapies.

Laryngeal cancer is a type of throat cancer that specifically impacts the voice box, or larynx. It typically forms in squamous cells lining the larynx, affecting breathing, swallowing and voice quality. Risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol, and certain strains of HPV. Treatment often involves surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. As an aggressive disease, early detection significantly improves prognosis.

A "Lipoma" is a benign and typically slow-growing tumor made of fatty tissue. It often appears under the skin and can feel soft to touch. Most commonly found in adults between 40 to 60 years old, lipomas can form anywhere on the body but are usually located on the shoulders, neck, or trunk. They are generally harmless and may only need removal for cosmetic reasons or if they cause discomfort or impede movements.

Liposarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in the fat cells. It often affects the limbs or the abdomen but can manifest in other parts of the body. Its growth may be slow and initially unnoticed, but it can eventually interfere with organ function or movement. Treatment options typically involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that originates from the lobules, which are the glands that produce milk in the breast. It's the second most common type of breast cancer, often growing more slowly and less likely to form a lump than the more common type, ductal carcinoma. Largely affecting postmenopausal women, it can also spread to other parts of the body.

Lymphatic vessels are an integral part of the human body's immune system. These thin-walled structures are akin to a network of tubes that assist in circulating lymph, a bodily fluid containing white blood cells that fight infections. They facilitate the removal of toxins and waste from the body's tissues, ultimately draining the lymph into the bloodstream.

Lymphedema is a medical condition characterized by chronic swelling, typically in the arms or legs, due to a blockage in the lymphatic system that prevents lymph fluid from draining adequately. The blockage leads to an accumulation of fluid causing swelling. It often arises as a complication of cancer treatments like surgery or radiation. Being a long-term condition, it requires continuous management.

A lymphoblast is an immature cell that originates from the lymphoid line of blood cells and is at the earliest stage of lymphocyte development in the bone marrow. It is generated as part of the body's immune response and transforms into a lymphocyte upon maturation. Lymphoblasts play a crucial role in managing infections and diseases. However, their overproduction can lead to certain types of leukemia.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, an essential component of the body's immune system. It specifically develops in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infections. There are two main types - Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms typically include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is a type of inherited cancer syndrome associated with a genetic predisposition to different cancer types. It drastically increases the risk of cancers, primarily colorectal and endometrial but also ovarian, stomach, and other organs. The syndrome is caused by mutations in the mismatch repair genes.

"Mammary" refers to the bodily system in mammals which produces milk for offspring. Most commonly, it is used to designate the mammary glands, which in females are the breasts. This system is crucial for nourishing newborns and plays a significant role in reproductive health. The word is often used in medical contexts related to lactation and breast health.

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove one or both breasts, often used as a treatment for breast cancer. The extent of tissue removal can vary, from partial (removing the cancerous part) to total (removing the entire breast). It is a critical decision usually made after considering other treatment options, risk factors, and personal preferences.

Medulloblastoma is a type of aggressive, fast-growing brain cancer that primarily affects children. It begins in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance, coordination, and complex intellectual functions. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates and outcomes. Despite its severity, advancements in therapy have increased the survival rate significantly.

Melanocytes are a type of skin cells found in the lower part of the epidermis, the top layer of the skin. These cells are primarily responsible for the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color. Melanocytes play a crucial role in protecting skin from harmful effects of UV radiation from the sun.

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) refers to a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that typically begins in the hormone-producing cells just beneath the skin and hair follicles. It commonly appears as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule and usually develops on sun-exposed areas. While MCC can occur at any age, it predominantly affects seniors and those with a weak immune system.

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive type of cancer that primarily forms on the protective lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It's typically caused by exposure to asbestos, a microscopic, fibrous mineral. With symptoms often appearing decades after exposure, diagnosis is normally in the later stages, impacting prognosis and treatment options.

Metaplasia is a pathological process where one type of mature cell is replaced by another type within the same category. Usually triggered by stress or damage, metaplasia is generally adaptive and reversible, changing to accommodate to the new environment. However, it can also present initial stages of carcinogenesis if left unnoticed and unmanaged.

A "Modified Radical Mastectomy" refers to a surgical procedure for breast cancer treatment, where the entire breast, most underarm lymph nodes, and often the lining over the chest muscles are removed, but the chest muscles themselves are preserved. This procedure has lesser physical impact compared to a radical mastectomy, yet still offers extensive therapy for aggressive breast cancers.

A "molecular target" refers to a specific molecule within a cell, usually a protein, that is identified as crucial in a pathway of a disease. By designing drugs to interact or interfere with these particular molecules, healthcare providers can potentially inhibit the progression of the disease. This forms the basis of targeted therapies in medical research.

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a medical condition where abnormal proteins, called monoclonal proteins or M proteins, are present in the blood. It's typically harmless, but may occasionally lead to serious disorders like blood cancers. MGUS lacks distinct symptoms and is often detected during routine blood tests.

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that originates from plasma cells, a type of white blood cell responsible for the production of antibodies. In this condition, these cells become malignant, multiply uncontrollably, and accumulate in the bone marrow, interfering with the production of healthy blood cells.

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) refer to a group of diverse bone marrow disorders where the body does not produce sufficient healthy blood cells. As a result, patients with MDS often exhibit anemia, fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding. It's generally diagnosed in the elderly and could progress into acute myeloid leukemia.

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.

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-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.

Oligodendroglioma is a type of brain tumor arising from oligodendrocytes, cells that produce myelin - an insulating layer around neurons. This slow-growing tumor generally affects adults and is often found in the frontal lobe of the brain. Symptoms include persistent headaches, seizures, and changes in personality or mental capacity. Treatment typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

An oncovirus is a type of virus that can cause cancer. This happens when the viruses alter the cell regulatory genes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and division, which eventually forms a malignant tumor. Oncoviruses are responsible for approximately 12% of all human cancers.

A PET/CT scan is a combination of two imaging techniques. PET (Positron Emission Tomography) reveals the body's metabolic activity, while CT (Computed Tomography) provides detailed anatomic information. By merging these two techniques into a single scan, doctors can more accurately diagnose, monitor, and treat diseases, particularly cancer, by pinpointing their exact location and extent in the body.

A Pap smear, also known as a Papanicolaou test, is a medical screening procedure for cervical cancer in women. It involves collecting cells from the woman's cervix — the lower, narrow end of the uterus — to check for any cell abnormalities that could possibly evolve into cancerous cells. The test is generally recommended for women between the ages of 21 and 65.