Cancer-Related Dictionary

Viral oncogenesis refers to the process by which viruses can cause cancer in humans and animals. Certain viruses can alter the genetic material of cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the development of tumors.

Visceral metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from the original tumor site to the internal organs such as the liver, lungs, or brain. This process indicates an advanced stage of cancer and requires specialized treatment strategies.

A wedge resection is a surgical procedure where a small, wedge-shaped piece of tissue is removed from an organ, often used to treat lung conditions or diagnose lung cancer.

White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are crucial components of the immune system that defend the body against both infectious diseases and foreign materials. They originate from stem cells in the bone marrow and are partitioned into granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils) and non-granulocytes (lymphocytes, monocytes).

An X-ray is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses electromagnetic radiation to capture images of internal body structures, especially bones. It helps in detecting abnormalities like fractures, infections, or tumors. This non-invasive procedure is widely used in the healthcare industry for diagnostic purposes.

A yolk sac tumor is a rare type of cancer that typically occurs in the ovaries or testes. It is most commonly found in children and young adults and originates from germ cells, which are cells that develop into sperm or eggs.

Young adult cancer refers to any type of cancer that is diagnosed in individuals within the young adult age group, typically considered between the ages of 15 and 39. These cancers can have unique biological characteristics and often present specific challenges related to physical and emotional development, reproductive health, and long-term survivorship.

Yttrium-90 (Y-90) is a radioactive isotope of the element Yttrium, used in medical applications such as radiation therapy for treating certain types of cancer. Due to its high energy level and short half-life, Y-90 can deliver a potent dose of radiation to a targeted area, aiding in selective destruction of tumorous cells.

A zinc finger nuclease is a type of engineered protein that can cut DNA at specific sites, allowing for precise genetic modifications. These proteins combine a zinc finger DNA-binding domain with a DNA-cleaving enzyme, enabling targeted editing of genes.

"Zinc Finger Protein" refers to a structure in proteins that enables them to interact with DNA, RNA, or other proteins. This structure contains a zinc ion, which stabilizes the fold. They play crucial roles in various biological functions, including gene regulation, DNA repair, and protein folding or assembly.

Zoledronic acid is a type of medication classified as a bisphosphonate, primarily utilized in the healthcare industry to treat bone-related diseases. It is employed in the management of conditions, such as Paget's Disease, high blood calcium levels due to malignancy, and in preventing skeletal fractures in patients with cancers like multiple myeloma and prostate cancer.