Cancer-Related Dictionary

Axillary dissection is a surgical procedure used to remove lymph nodes found in the armpit region or "axilla", primarily performed on patients with breast cancer. This operation helps determine the stage of the cancer and guides treatment decisions by revealing if the cancer has spread to these lymph nodes.

B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a protein found on the surface of B cells, which are a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response. BCMA plays a crucial role in the growth, survival, and differentiation of these cells.

"B-cell" refers to a type of white blood cell that plays a pivotal role in the immune system. B-cells can mature into cells that produce antibodies, specialized proteins that help fight infections, viruses and diseases. They also create immune memory, enabling the immune system to respond more efficiently to future exposures to the same pathogens.

"B-cell lymphoma" is a type of cancer that forms in B cells, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight off infections. It is mainly characterized by the abnormal growth and division of B cells, often leading to the development of tumors, commonly in lymph nodes, but possibly anywhere the lymph system exists.

BRCA1/BRCA2 are genes that produce proteins suppressing tumor growth. Mutations in these genes can lead to increased risk of certain cancers, primarily breast and ovarian in women. BRCA genetic testing helps identify these mutations, crucial for cancer prevention and treatment strategies.

Basal cell nevus syndrome, also known as Gorlin syndrome, is a rare genetic condition that increases the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, along with other abnormalities in the skin, bones, and nervous system.

Basal cell carcinoma refers to a type of skin cancer that originates in the basal cells, which produce new skin cells to replace old ones. It often manifests as a waxy or shiny bump, or as a red, scaly patch on skin regularly exposed to the sun. Being the most common type of skin cancer, early detection and treatment can prevent complications.

Basal cells are a type of cell found at the bottom layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. These cells are responsible for skin regeneration, producing new skin cells and pushing older cells upward. Abnormal growth of basal cells can lead to basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer.

"Benign" refers to a condition, tumor, or growth that is not harmful in effect and not malignant. It is non-cancerous and does not spread to other parts of the body. It denotes a mild form or consequence that does not typically become life-threatening or seriously damaging. In healthcare, benign is often associated with a positive prognosis.

Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (Beta HCG) is a hormone produced by cells that are associated with pregnancy. It's usually detected in blood tests or urine tests to confirm pregnancy or as part of a screening test for certain birth defects. It can also be used in medical diagnostics to detect some cancers.

Bevacizumab, marketed under the name Avastin, is a monoclonal antibody used in cancer treatment. It inhibits angiogenesis by blocking the action of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a substance that helps tumor growth and spread. Bevacizumab is used for various types of cancers, including colorectal, lung, breast, kidney, and eye.

Bioluminescence imaging is a non-invasive technique used to study biological processes in living organisms by detecting light emitted from chemical reactions within the body. This method is often used in research to track cellular and molecular events in real-time.

A biomarker, short for biological marker, is a measurable indicator of some biological state or condition. It refers to a broad category of medical signs that can be observed from outside the patient, which can indicate the presence, severity, or progression of a disease or the effectiveness of treatment.

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.

Bisphosphonates are a class of drugs used to treat osteoporosis and similar bone diseases. They work by slowing down the process of bone breakdown, thus preserving bone mass and preventing fractures. Also used to treat high levels of calcium in the blood caused by certain cancers.

Bladder cancer is a malignant growth within the bladder, an organ that stores urine. The most common type, transitional cell carcinoma, originates from cells lining the bladder. Risk factors include smoking, chemical exposure, and chronic infections. Symptoms often include hematuria, discomfort during urination, and lower back pain. Early detection and treatment are vital.

Bleomycin is a potent medication primarily used as a chemotherapy drug for the treatment of various cancers, including testicular cancer, Hodgkin's disease, and certain types of lymphoma. It works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. However, it comes with risks, such as potential lung toxicity. It's usually administered intravenously or under the skin.

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.

Bone metastasis refers to the condition wherein cancer cells from the primary site (like breast, lung, or prostate) spread to the bones. This is a common occurrence in advanced stages of cancer, causing pain, fractures and other complications. The occurrence of bone metastasis often indicates a poorer prognosis for cancer patients.

A bone scan is a nuclear imaging test that helps diagnose and track several types of bone diseases and conditions. It involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material, which then travels through the bloodstream and is absorbed by the bones. A scanner detects and measures the radiation, creating images or "maps" of bone metabolism for analysis.

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.

Brain metastasis refers to the condition where cancer cells spread from their original site to the brain. This usually occurs when cancer from other parts of the body propagates through the bloodstream to the brain tissue, leading to secondary brain tumors. Brain metastasis is a serious and often late-stage complication of cancer.

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth or mass of cells within the brain. These tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can originate from the brain tissue itself or from other parts of the body, spreading to the brain. The presence of a brain tumor can disrupt normal brain function by compressing surrounding structures, causing neurological symptoms, and potentially leading to serious health issues. Diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors involve various medical interventions, such as imaging studies, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the type, location, and characteristics of the tumor.

Breast cancer is a malignancy originating in the breast tissue, where cells begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. This tumor can potentially invade nearby tissues and, if left untreated, can spread to distant parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. It is the most common cancer among women globally. Detecting breast cancer early through regular screenings like mammograms and employing a range of treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Breast conservation surgery, also known as lumpectomy, is a surgical procedure aimed at removing a tumor or abnormal tissue from the breast while preserving as much of the breast as possible. It is often used in the treatment of early-stage breast cancer and is typically followed by radiation therapy to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence.

A breast duct papilloma is a small, benign tumor that forms in the milk ducts of the breast. It is often characterized by a wart-like growth and can cause nipple discharge or discomfort. While not cancerous, it may require removal to alleviate symptoms or rule out cancer.

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.

Burkitt lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a fast-growing and aggressive cancer of the lymphatic system. It predominantly affects children and is named after Denis Burkitt, who first identified this disease in African children in 1958. Common symptoms include fever, night sweats, and significant weight loss.

CA 125, or Cancer Antigen 125, is a protein that is often elevated in the blood of women with ovarian cancer. It's used as a biomarker in medical tests to monitor treatment response or detect recurrence in patients with this type of cancer. It is also used as a diagnostic tool, although it's not specific, since other conditions can also raise CA 125 levels.

CA 19-9, or Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9, is a tumor marker primarily used to monitor treatment response and disease recurrence in pancreatic cancer patients. It can also be elevated in other gastrointestinal cancers and conditions such as cirrhosis and pancreatitis. It's not recommended for cancer screening in asymptomatic individuals due to non-specific findings.

"CAYAs" is an acronym referring to "Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults," particularly in medical studies focusing on cancer patients under the age of 39.

Cachexia is a severe, complex medical condition characterized by extreme weight loss and muscle atrophy, generally observed in individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, and heart failure. It's linked with poor response to therapy, decreased quality of life, and increased mortality.

Cancer cachexia is a complex syndrome characterized by severe weight loss, muscle wasting, and loss of appetite, often seen in patients with advanced cancer. It is not simply a result of reduced food intake but involves metabolic changes that make it difficult for the body to maintain weight and muscle mass.

Cancer organoids are three-dimensional cell cultures derived from a patient's tumor cells. These organoids mimic the structure and function of actual tumors, allowing researchers to study cancer in a laboratory setting more effectively. They provide a personalized approach to understanding cancer biology and testing potential treatments.

Cancer Stage (I, II, III, IV) refers to the extent of cancer spread in the body, determined by the size and location of the tumor, lymph node involvement, and whether the disease has metastasized. Stage I usually indicates a small tumor confined to the origin site. Stage II and III show larger tumors or greater spread to nearby tissues and nodes. Stage IV symbolizes advanced cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body.

Cancer vaccines are biological substances that are administered to stimulate or restore the immune system's ability to fight against cancer. They come in two forms: preventive vaccines that protect against viruses known to cause cancer, for instance HPV vaccine, and treatment vaccines that help the immune system target and destroy cancer cells. Cancer vaccines can be of synthetic or natural origin, and work either individually or hand in hand with other treatment options.

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 carcinogen refers to any substance, radionuclide, or radiation that promotes carcinogenesis, the formation of cancer. It works by altering the cellular metabolism or damaging DNA directly in cells, which in turn can induce the development of cancerous growths. Hence, exposure to carcinogens increases cancer risk. Examples include tobacco smoke, asbestos, and certain chemicals.

A carcinoid tumor is a rare, slow-growing type of neuroendocrine tumor that primarily originates in the digestive tract or lungs. It often takes years to display symptoms, which may vary depending on the tumor’s location. Though most carcinoid tumors are benign, some can spread to other parts of the body and become malignant. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can manage the tumor effectively.

Carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in cells making up the skin or the tissue lining organs, such as the liver or kidneys. Unlike sarcomas, carcinomas originate in epithelial cells, including those in glandular tissues. These cancers can affect many parts of the body, often leading to specific symptoms based on their location and stage. Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

"Carcinoma in situ" is a medical term referring to a group of abnormal cells that remain in their original location. These cells have the potential to become cancerous, but they haven't spread to surrounding tissues or other parts of the body. It's the earliest stage of cancer, often highly treatable when detected promptly.

Carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP) is a rare disease where cancer cells are found in the body but the place the cancer began, known as the primary site, cannot be determined. Often, the cancer is already advanced by the time it's diagnosed. Early detection and accurate diagnosis of the primary site can aid in targeted treatment.

The cell cycle is a sequence of events that a cell undergoes, encompassing the period from its formation to its division into two daughter cells. It involves stages such as the growth phase (G1), DNA synthesis (S phase), second growth phase (G2), and mitosis (M phase). This process ensures both growth and repair of tissues across multicellular organisms.

Central nervous system lymphoma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the lymph tissue of the brain and spinal cord. It involves the uncontrolled growth of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, within the central nervous system.

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that begins within the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It occurs when abnormal cells on the cervix grow out of control. Mostly caused by specific strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), it can often be successfully treated when detected early through regular screenings like the Pap test.

Chemotherapy is a medical treatment involving the use of powerful drugs to target and inhibit the rapid growth of cancer cells within the body. This approach aims to stop or slow down the progression of cancer by disrupting the cell division process and damaging the DNA of cancer cells, ultimately preventing their ability to replicate and spread. While chemotherapy's effectiveness can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, it plays a crucial role in the comprehensive treatment of cancer, often used in conjunction with other therapies like surgery, radiation, and targeted therapies.

Cholangiocarcinoma, commonly known as bile duct cancer, is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that occurs in the tiny, tube-like bile ducts within the liver. These ducts carry bile, a fluid that aids in the digestion of fat, to the gallbladder. This cancer is often hard to diagnose and usually discovered at an advanced stage.