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Cancer-Related Dictionary

Comprehensive medical dictionary with cancer-related terms, definitions, and explanations to help you better understand medical terminology and concepts.

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Cancer Types

Mediastinal lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the lymph nodes located in the mediastinum, the central part of the chest between the lungs. It involves the abnormal growth of lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell, and can affect the body's immune system.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Cancer Types

Melanoma is a type of cancer that originates from the pigment-producing cells, melanocytes. Most commonly found in the skin, it can also occur in the eyes (ocular melanoma) or other parts of the body. Melanoma is notorious for its rapid spread and high mortality rate, particularly if not detected early. Sun exposure is a key risk factor, emphasizing the importance of protection and surveillance.

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Cancer Types

Melanoma in situ is an early form of skin cancer where the malignant cells are confined to the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. It is the earliest stage of melanoma and is highly treatable when detected early.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Medical Terminology

Metastasis is a medical term referring to the process by which cancer cells spread from the initial tumor site to other parts of the body via the blood or lymph system, forming secondary tumors or 'metastases'. This ability largely defines a cancer's aggressiveness and has significant implications for treatment strategies and prognosis.

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Medical Terminology

A Microarray is a laboratory tool used to detect the expression of thousands of genes simultaneously. It's a two-dimensional grid where probes (DNA or RNA fragments) are attached. By analyzing the way a sample interacts with these probes, scientists can measure the expression levels of massive quantities of genes, making it a crucial tool in genomics research.

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Medical Terminology

Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells developing from a single parent cell. This is a fundamental process for growth, development, and repair in multi-cellular organisms. In essence, mitosis ensures each new cell has the same DNA as the original.

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Medical Procedure

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.

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Medical Imaging

Molecular imaging is a type of medical imaging that provides detailed pictures of what is happening inside the body at the molecular and cellular level. This technique is used to visualize the processes in the body, such as how a disease progresses or how a treatment is working.

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Treatment

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.

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Medical Terminology

Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system's ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses. They are specially engineered to target a specific disease-causing agent, enhancing the body's natural responses against the disease. They are used in various therapies including cancer and autoimmune diseases treatments.

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Treatment

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).

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Cancer Types

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.

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Medical Terminology

Oncogenes are genes that can potentially cause cancer. When they are normal, they help to regulate cell growth and division. However, when they are altered or mutated, they can lead to abnormal cell growth and proliferation, eventually fostering the development of cancer.

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Medical Terminology

An oncogenic virus is a type of virus that can cause cancer by altering the genetic material of the host cells it infects. These viruses can disrupt normal cell regulation and lead to uncontrolled cell growth.

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Medical Terminology

An oncologist is a specialized medical doctor who diagnoses and treats cancers. This expert is involved in the patient's care from diagnosis to treatment, utilizing therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries to manage the disease. Oncologists often collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals to provide personalized care for each patient.

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Medical Terminology

Oncology is a branch of medicine that specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of various types of cancer. It includes medical professionals known as oncologists who use various therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery to combat cancerous cells.

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Medical Terminology

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.

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Cancer Types

Oral cancer refers to any cancerous tissue growth located in the mouth. It may arise as a primary lesion originating in any of the oral tissues, by metastasis from a distant site of origin, or by extension from a neighboring anatomic structure, such as the nasal cavity or the maxillary sinus. Early detection significantly increases the chances of a successful treatment.

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Medical Procedure

Orchiectomy is a surgical procedure carried out to remove one or both testicles in males. This operation is typically utilized as a treatment method for testicular cancer or prostate cancer. The procedure can also be employed in cases of severe trauma to the testicles or as part of gender affirmation surgery.

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Cancer Types

Osteosarcoma is a type of cancer that originates in the bones. It most commonly affects adolescents and young adults, but can occur at any age. This aggressive malignant neoplasm leads to abnormal, uncontrollable growth of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. It predominantly occurs in long bones like the femur, tibia, and humerus, consequently causing pain and swelling in the affected area.

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Cancer Types

An ovarian germ cell tumor is a type of cancer that originates from the cells in the ovaries responsible for producing eggs. These tumors are rare and primarily affect young women and adolescents. While most ovarian germ cell tumors are benign, some can be malignant and require medical treatment.

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Medical Procedure

Current ovarian reserve tests include hormonal markers and ultrasonographic markers.  Hormonal markers: are determined in the blood after a blood sample is taken. Suitable markers are FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), estradiol, inhibin-B, and antimullerian hormone (AMH).  The measurement of FSH levels at 2 or 3 days after the onset of full menstrual flow has been used as a marker of ovarian reserve since the 1980s, based on its association with reproductive outcome. Elevated FSH values are associated with but not always predictive of poor ovarian response and failure to conceive. Estradiol is the natural estrogen of the woman and is responsible for the expression of the female secondary sexual characteristics. It is produced by granulosa cells of the ovarian follicles. Estradiol levels are commonly assessed during the early follicular phase and high levels indicate normal functioning. Inhibin is a peptide hormone with 2 subunits (Alpha and Beta). Inhibin-B is produced by granulosa cells of ovarian follicles and its levels vary during the menstrual cycle. Concentrations of inhibin-B decrease with age and during premature ovarian failure. AMH is a proteohormone and is produced by granulosa cells of the follicles. AMH shows little cycle fluctuation and correlates negatively with the progression of follicle loss and with a woman's age: the higher the AMH, the higher the follicle count.  Ultrasonographic markers: include the antral follicle count (AFC) and the measurement of ovarian volume, both assessed through ultrasound of the ovaries. The AFC describes the number of antral follicles in the ovaries measuring between 2–10mm. The greatest advantage of ultrasonographic markers of ovarian reserve is their non-invasiveness. Both markers exhibit an age-related decline.

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Cancer Types

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive glands that produce eggs or ova. It often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen, making it difficult to treat and often fatal. Symptoms can include abdominal bloating, discomfort, weight loss, and frequent urination. It is the fifth most common cause of cancer-related death among women.

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Medical Imaging

A PET Scan or Positron Emission Tomography is a diagnostic imaging test used in medicine. It uses a radioactive substance known as a tracer to look for disease or abnormalities in the body. PET scans provide detailed 3-dimensional images, mostly used for detecting cancer, heart abnormalities and brain disorders. This scan is highly effective in revealing or evaluating several conditions as it shows how organs and tissues are functioning.

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Medical Imaging

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.

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Treatment

Palliative chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with advanced cancer. It is not intended to cure the cancer but to manage pain and other symptoms.

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Treatment

Palliative care refers to specialized medical care that focuses on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain and stress caused by serious illnesses. It aims to increase quality of life for both the patient and their family and it's suitable for any stage or type of illness.

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Cancer Types

Pancreatic cancer is a type of malignancy that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ residing behind the lower stomach. This organ releases enzymes aiding digestion and hormones managing blood sugar. This form of cancer often shows hardly any early symptoms, spreads swiftly and is mostly detected in advanced stages, making it one of the deadliest types of cancer.

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Medical Procedure

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.

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Medical Terminology

A partial response refers to a situation where a patient experiences a regression of a disease or its symptoms but not to the extent of a complete eradication. It is commonly used in healthcare, particularly in cancer treatment, where it indicates a significant decrease in tumor size or disease markers but not their total disappearance.

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Medical Terminology

A pathologist is a medical professional specializing in studying diseases and their causes, effects, and processes. They perform laboratory tests on patient samples, interpret the results to aid in diagnosis, and consult with other physicians to ensure appropriate treatment plans. Their expertise is vital in detecting serious conditions like cancer and infections. They also contribute to health maintenance by evaluating screening tests.

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Medical Procedure

A pathology report is an important medical document that presents findings from laboratory tests conducted on tissue or cell samples. This report is processed by a pathologist and often includes details such as diagnosis, severity, cell details, and suggestions for further treatment if necessary. Pathology reports assist healthcare professionals in providing appropriate disease management strategies.

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Medical Terminology

Pediatric oncology is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers occurring in children and adolescents. This branch combines various treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery and stem cell transplantation, along with research on cancer biology and genetics. The aim is to effectively treat and ideally achieve remission, while reducing potential side effects and improving the quality of life for young patients.

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Medical Terminology

Perineural invasion refers to a pathological process where cancer cells invade the spaces surrounding nerves. Typically detected under a microscope during tissue exams, this process often indicates aggressive cancer and can lead to increased risk of recurrence post-treatment. It's commonly observed in various cancers like prostate, head & neck, colorectal, among others.

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  • Anatomy: Body parts and structures
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