Cancer-Related Dictionary

"Hormone Receptor Status" refers to a clinical parameter determined in patients with certain types of cancers. It reveals whether the patient's cancer cells express specific proteins (hormone receptors) like estrogen and progesterone, signifying their dependency on these hormones for growth. This information influences the selection of optimal therapeutic strategies, informing decisions on hormone therapy use.

Hormone therapy refers to the medical use of hormones, either natural or synthetic, to treat certain conditions, such as menopause symptoms, certain cancers, or hormonal imbalances. This procedure impacts the body's endocrine system, which controls numerous bodily functions with hormones. It can come in multiple forms, including pills, patches, creams, or injections. It's essential, however, to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting the therapy.

Hypercalcemia is a medical condition characterized by an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood. It can be caused by several factors such as hyperparathyroidism, certain types of cancer, or excessive intake of vitamin D. Symptoms may include frequent urination, fatigue, nausea, or bone pain. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including kidney stones and cognitive issues.

"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.

Hypofractionation is a method used in radiation therapy where the total dose of radiation is divided into large doses and treatments are given less often than traditional radiation therapy. This approach minimizes the treatment duration, potentially enhancing the convenience and effectiveness of the therapy.

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.

Immunogenicity refers to the ability of a substance, such as a vaccine or therapeutic protein, to provoke an immune response in the body. This response can be beneficial, as in the case of vaccines, or undesirable, as it can lead to adverse reactions or reduce the effectiveness of treatments.

Immunoglobulin refers to any class of proteins, produced by the immune system, that function as antibodies in the response to an invasion by foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses. They play a crucial role in identifying and neutralizing these pathogens, enhancing immune responses.

Immunotherapy is a type of medical treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight diseases, including cancer. This can be done in several ways, including stimulating the immune system to work harder, providing it with components like man-made immune system proteins, or training it to specifically attack cancer cells.

Indolent lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. It is characterized by slow growth and progression, which means it often takes years to become serious. Despite its slow nature, it can still require treatment and monitoring.

Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve a successful pregnancy after a 12-month period of appropriately timed, unprotected intercourse. It is well established that it can result from various cancer treatments. Patients who received alkylating agents, cisplatin, and other heavy metal-containing chemotherapy are at risk. Radiation therapy to the hypothalamus/pituitary axis, ovaries, or testes has the potential to significantly increase this risk. One’s own fertility status can be checked via fertility tests but there is no absolute way to test for future fertility potential in either cancer survivors or the general population. Ovarian reserve tests only provide indirect estimates and do not predict natural fertility potential in regularly ovulating women, and likewise, semen analysis cannot absolutely predict sterility in males.

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.

Intrathecal chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment where chemotherapy drugs are injected directly into the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This method is used to target cancer cells in the central nervous system.

Intravenous (IV) refers to a method of delivering medications, fluids, or nutrients directly into a person's bloodstream through a vein, commonly via a needle or tube. It ensures rapid action and precise control over the amount of substance administered. Often used in hospitals or medical facilities for treatments, rehydration, or during surgeries.

Invasive cancer refers to a type of cancer that has spread beyond the layer of tissue where it initially developed and started invading surrounding, healthy tissues. It's also known as infiltrating cancer. Notably, it is more serious than in situ (noninvasive) cancer, which remains within its original location.

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It begins in the milk ducts and spreads to surrounding breast tissue. If undetected or untreated, it can also metastasize to other parts of the body, escalating to a potentially life-threatening condition. It can affect both men and women.

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.

Irinotecan is a type of chemotherapy drug, classified as a topoisomerase I inhibitor. This drug is used primarily in the treatment of cancers, including colorectal and lung cancer. It works by interfering with the replication of cancerous cells, thereby preventing their growth and spread. Irinotecan is commonly administered intravenously.

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.

Kaposi's sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that causes multiple lesions to form in the skin, oral cavity, lymph nodes, and internal organs. Often associated with individuals having a compromised immune system, such as HIV/AIDS patients, it's triggered by human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). Both cutaneous (skin) and visceral (internal organ) forms exist, showcasing symptoms like reddish or purplish patches, nodules, or plaques.

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.

Leukemia is a group of blood cancer types that primarily affect the bone marrow and white blood cells. It occurs when the body's bone marrow produces an excessive number of abnormal white blood cells, inhibiting the production of red blood cells and platelets, important for proper bodily function. This interferes with the body's ability to fight infections, clot blood, and transport oxygen.

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.

A lobectomy refers to a type of surgery where a lobe or a portion of an organ is removed. It is most commonly associated with the removal of a lobe of the lung due to conditions such as lung cancer, but it can also apply to other organs like the thyroid, liver, or brain. The procedure aims to treat disease and improve health.

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.

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a condition that indicates the presence of abnormal cells in the lobules of the breast. Although not a cancer itself, LCIS is considered a marker for increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future. It's often detected during a biopsy for another breast condition or during a mammogram.

Long-term follow-up (LTFU) care is important for childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors due to their high risk of late effects. LTFU includes prevention, early detection, and management of late effects to improve the quality of survivorship. Additionally, follow-up provides an opportunity to offer age-appropriate information about disease, treatment, and a healthy lifestyle, as well as practical advice about insurance, education or work, and psychosocial support. Current LTFU guidelines for mental health problems note that healthcare providers and survivors of childhood, adolescent and young adult cancer should be aware that survivors are at risk for mental disorder symptoms. For all survivors, surveillance is recommended for: Depression and mood disorders Anxiety Psychological distress Post-traumatic stress Behavioral problems Suicidal ideation The guidelines recommend mental health surveillance for patients throughout treatment for cancer and for survivors to begin at the first follow-up visit and continue throughout the lifespan. Mental health surveillance is recommended for all survivors at every follow-up visit (or at general medical check-ups).

A low-grade glioma is a type of brain tumor that originates from glial cells, which support nerve cells. These tumors are considered slow-growing and less aggressive compared to high-grade gliomas, but they can still cause significant health issues depending on their size and location in the brain.

A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove a discrete portion or "lump" of tissue, usually a breast tumor, from an afflicted individual. It is often employed as an effective treatment for early-stage cancer, retaining most of the breast tissue and offering a less invasive alternative to mastectomy.

Lung cancer is a type of malignant disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs, specifically in the tissues or air passages. It can be primarily caused by smoking, but non-smokers can get it too due to reasons like exposure to radon gas or secondhand smoke. It's often fatal due to late-stage diagnosis, making early detection crucial.

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that act as filters for harmful substances and are essential to the immune system. They produce immune cells to fight infections and trap viruses, bacteria, and other causes of illnesses before they can infect other parts of the body.

Lymphatic mapping is a medical procedure used to identify the lymph nodes that are the first to receive drainage from a tumor. These nodes, called sentinel lymph nodes, are examined to determine if cancer has spread.

The lymphatic system, a vital part of the immune system, comprises a network of lymphatic vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph. It is responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body, transporting white blood cells to fight infections, and facilitating the absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system.

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.

Lymphomatoid papulosis is a rare skin disorder characterized by recurring, self-healing skin lesions that resemble lymphoma but are typically benign. These lesions can appear as red-brown bumps or nodules on the skin and may last for weeks or months before resolving on their own.

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.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical test that physicians use to diagnose medical conditions. It utilizes a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the inside of the body. MRI can be used to examine various parts of the body, including the brain, spine, joints, abdomen, blood vessels, and heart.

"Malignant" is an adjective commonly used in medical contexts, referring to a severe and progressively worsening disease, often cancer. It denotes conditions characterized by uncontrolled growth, induction of damage to surrounding tissues, and the potential to spread to other body organs, causing serious health risks and possibly death.

"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 mammogram is a specialized medical imaging procedure used to screen and diagnose breast diseases, primarily cancer, in women. It involves taking X-ray pictures of the breast to detect early signs of cancer, often before physical symptoms develop. Mammograms are recommended annually for women of certain age groups or those with increased risk.

Marginal zone lymphoma is a type of slow-growing non-Hodgkin lymphoma that originates in the marginal zone of lymphoid tissue, which is part of the immune system. It often affects the spleen, lymph nodes, or mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) and is characterized by the abnormal proliferation of B-cells.

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.